The capital City of Havana is one of the oldest in the Caribbean and a key location for pivotal moments in history. Havana today is also the results of diverse cultural influences, such as the Spanish, the African, and the Caribbean. The City is also divided into municipalities. One of the most beautiful, due to the diversity in its architecture and markedly different periods of influence, is the municipality of Old Havana. With its nostalgic architecture and facades, Old Havana is home to the more known points of interest, such as the newly renovated Capitolio and the Catedral de la Habana. However, If you really want to get the full Havana experience, here is a list of the 10 places you should know about for your next visit.

1. Stop at the Malecón de La Habana

   This five-mile extension is one of the main attractions in Havana. It serves as a boardwalk, seawall, and is one of the main roads of access into and around the city. It is famous for its spectacular sunset views and active nightlife. It is certainly a well-visited spot for locals and out of towners. It is a phenomenal stop for photo opportunities and to see the bustling City of Havana. The Malecón also serves as an exhibit space during events, such as the Havana Biennial, an important art event that kicks off April 12th in 2019 and runs until May 12th. The Biennial only takes place every other year – don’t miss it! Coming off of the drive along the Malecón you will see the symbolic Capitolio.

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2. Get a Picture of the José Martí Memorial

   The Monumento a José Martí, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cuba. It is located in Plaza de la Revolución, along Calle Paseo and Avenida de las Américas. This star-shaped tower was built as a memorial to José Martí, an important Cuban journalist and poet who fought for Cuban independence from Spain. The tower stands at over 300 feet tall on the grounds of the former Loma de Los Catalanes. It is made of Cuban marble. Next to the tower is also a marble sculpture of Martí himself. The Monumento was completed in 1958, towards the end of the Batista dictatorship in Cuba. Inside the Monumento are rooms that house Martí’s writings, the history of the Plaza de la Revolución, and an art gallery. Visitors are also able to go to the top of the Monumento to see one of the most spectacular views of Havana. The best way to photograph the structure is from across the street, where two buildings have outlines of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos, respectively.

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3. Dance in the Callejón de Hamel

   The Callejón de Hamel is a colorful highlight of the city. It is a celebration of African influence in Cuba, a convergence of music, religion, and art. If you find yourself at the Callejón on a Sunday afternoon you will be welcomed by the sound of music and the beating of the tumbadora drums, while a crowd sings and dances in unison. The walls are all covered in quotes, paintings, and unusual sculptures made out of bathtubs, pipes, and other unexpected structures. Every corner offers plenty of opportunities for lively pictures and to capture the essence of this location.

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4. Lunch at Paladar Doña Eutimia

   Dona Eutimia is probably one of the most authentic and well-attended privately owned paladares in Old Havana. It is a small locate, situated in the Plaza de la Catedral, just outside the namesake Catedral de la Habana. The staff is very attentive and sensitive to patrons’ needs. They have one of the best traditional shredded beef Ropa Viejas and a fantastic Mojito, served in a generous cocktail glass. They also have the delicious Flan, a traditional milk custard dessert. It is the perfect stop for the middle of the day before continuing with your planned excursions.

   Book with the Havana Biennial

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5. Ride in Classic American Cars

   One of the biggest things Cuba is known for is its impressive collection of Classic American Cars. They bring an air of nostalgia to the Island, particularly the 1950’s when some of these cars were freshly introduced to the Island. Today, they offer a fantastic adventure to visitors. They are available as convertibles and hardtops, also called Almendrones for their almond-like shape. These beautifully preserved vehicles are a great way to ride around Havana and to get the full, panoramic view of every stop. Some of the key areas to drive along are of course the Malecón and Capitolio, the Túnel de la Habana that runs under the bay, the arch in Chinatown, and along 5th Avenue in the Miramar district, amongst others.

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6. Visit el Cristo de la Habana

   El Cristo is another not to be missed key landmark in Havana. It sits atop a hill, sprouting at over 60 feet into the air. It was built by sculptor Jilma Madera and is made of Carrera Marble. You will notice that the statue has fuller lips and a strong physique. It is rumored to have been modeled after one of the artist’s old lovers. The sculpture is also notable for wearing sandals. The view of the city and cruise docking area from this point is magnificent. It is a great spot for pictures of the city.

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7. Explore the Cementerio Colón

   The Cementerio Colón mas named after none other than Christopher Columbus whose authentic Spanish name is Cristóbal Colón. The sculptures in this notable landmark are so remarkable that the Cemetery has been considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Some of the most known resting places are the Mausoleo de Los Bomberos Heróicos for their baroque detailing and La Milagrosa, where people ask for their children and matters of the heart.

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8. Sip a Cocktail at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba

   The Hotel Nacional is a landmark of its own and is also a recipient of the UNESCO Memory of the World Award. As you drive up to the hotel through its lavish palm tree-lined driveway, you will feel like you are stepping into an era of nostalgia. Classic American Cars can are often spotted parked outside the Hotel. As you walk up the stairs to the main entrance, you will feel as in a scene from Casablanca, with the courteous doormen and high doors. From floor to ceiling, the hotel is vibrant with elegant details worthy of the celebrities and many notables that have stayed at this award-winning hotel. Some of the important guests have been Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Walt Disney, and Nat King Cole amongst others. As you make your way to the back of the hotel, take in the scenic water view and spot the large cannons displayed on the property.

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9. Morro-Cabaña complex and evening cannon ceremony

   It is certainly a favorite for visitors and locals. The Morro Cabana Complex is a must see during the daytime and nighttime. During the daytime, walk across the Morro. This location gives visitors another opportunity for a panoramic view of the harbor, the Malecón, and Old Havana. Within walking distance, large cannons are available for close observation. It is the spot to marvel at this beautiful city.

   At night, visit the Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro. This stone and coral structure continues to be lined by cannons. The alleys are also a spot for local vendors with crafts and other goods. One of the highlights of the evening is the Cannon Ceremony, which kicks off at 9 p.m. during daylight time savings or 8 p.m. EST. The ceremony, presided by soldiers in proper period attire, has a dramatic buildup that concludes in the “firing” of a mock cannonball. There is something very magical about the torches, dimly lit setting, and this very real place where history was made.

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10. Nightlife

    There are many things to do in Havana at night. Depending on what your preferred activities and settings are, try at least one or all four of these diverse options: The Tropicana, The Parisien, The Buena Vista Social Club show at Habana Café or the award-winning Fábrica de Arte Cubano. Here are some pointers to help with these options.

    Book Your Evening Transfers

    The Tropicana Cabaret has been known throughout history as the grand, Vegas-style show in Havana. The dancers and performers are all decked out in elaborate costumes and headpieces. Each dance number tells a story to hundreds that attend this spectacular music and dance experience. During the show, you may also choose to sip on some bubbly, rum or soda of your choice in the open-air setting lined with massive lights and a grand stage.

    

    Book Your Excursion to The Tropicana Cabaret

    The Parisien sits in the grounds of the historical Hotel Nacional. It is a more intimate setting than the Tropicana, but also offers a colorful performance with live music and dance. You can choose to enjoy this show while sipping on a traditional Mojito. While enjoying the performance, you can snap pictures and shoot videos at will, which is one of the advantages of this performance. The cast is also formidable at storytelling through dance the evolution of Cuban history.

    

    Book Your Excursion to The Parisien

    The Buena Vista Social Club show is a must see for music lovers. This musical ensemble performs at the nightclub nestled in the Meliá Cohiba Hotel, a key meeting point for locals and travelers, right across from the Malecón in Havana. The setting is also more intimate. The space is decorated Hard Rock Café style, with local and international celebrity memorabilia, an airplane, classic cars, and even a motorcycle. The performance complete with an MC is delightful, from the opportunities for singalongs to joining the dancers on stage. It’s an engaging and interactive performance for all who enjoy live music complete with musicians, dancers, and celebrated singers. You may even get lucky and experience a member or two of the original Buena Vista Social Club.

    

    Book Your Excursion to Buena Vista Social Club.

    If you prefer to see an eclectic art collection in an even more unexpected setting, visit the Fábrica de Arte Cubano. This building has been transformed into a multi-function space that serves as a club, an art gallery, music, food, and libation stop. It is a popular spot for artsy locals, hipsters, and travelers. You could sit in a large blue room with open seating and a bar while looking at a Queen concert or walk into a small exhibit room with mixed-media art and fashion. Every nook and cranny have something to be discovered. Once you have been in Havana for a few days you will also start to recognize some of the landmarks across many art pieces lining the walls, ceilings, furnishings, and floors.

    

    Explore excursions and group programs with stops at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano:

    Cuba At A Glance

    Pride Experience

    Havana-Miami Art

    Morua-Maceo Project

How to See It All

Organizing your time in Cuba as efficiently as possible is very important. This is just a preview of the many things that can be done in the City of Havana alone! The best way to make sure you may the most of your stay is to work with a specialized travel agency, such as OnCuba Travel, which will ensure that you not only meet all the necessary travel requirements while also making sure that every stop covers your main interests and desired level of activity. Did you know that now OnCuba Travel can also coordinate your transfer, flights, hotels, and can also design a group program for you? These are just some of the advantages of this professional and OFAC approved travel agency. Contact us today to get started!

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Cuba is a country full of flavor and color in the form of beautiful views, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine, combined with an exciting past and many historical sites. Although Havana tends to be the city that comes to mind first when Cuba is the subject, there are several other cities also worthy of exploration and awe. Cuba is also home to seven Cultural and two Natural World Heritage sites, as recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). In this blog, let’s go over the top 5 cities to visit in Cuba, which highlights to keep in mind for each, complete with accommodation options and other travel tips to make the experience enjoyable and easy for travelers.

Havana | Flight time from Miami: Approx. 1hr 15min

Based on current laws to travel to Cuba, all U.S. travelers must enter Cuba through José Martí International Airport in Havana. The Cuban capital has been a longtime popular travel destination. The City of Havana recently celebrated its 500th Anniversary of Foundation, a distinction not yet available to many cities in the Americas. As such, it is rich in history. It is also the largest city in Cuba and holds the country’s main port. Get to know some of the many landmarks in Havana, such as:

• The Capitolio
• The plazas in La Habana
• Colon Cemetery, also called Necropolis
• The Port and Malecón de la Habana
• The Túnel de la Habana
• The Morro-Cabana Complex
• Hemingway’s House and his boat, Pilar
• La Bodeguita del Medio, home of the Mojito
• El Floridita Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, home of the Daiquirí

Dining options are also plentiful. From traditional restaurants like Doña Eutimia in Plaza de La Catedral to Café Ajiaco in the outskirts of the city. Modern Cuban cuisine and fusion options are also available with downtown Havana views. Some noteworthy spots to consider are Paladar Café Laurent or El Cocinero.

To enjoy all the landmarks in Havana, you may want to consider excursions such as Havana Highlights, A Walk Through Old Colonial Havana, A Ride Through Havana in American Classic Cars, and An Evening Stroll Through the Historic Center of Havana. To learn more about American author Ernest Hemingway, you may want to consider Following Hemingway’s Steps in Havana. This 3.5-hour tour includes areas of Havana, as well as a visit to Finca Vijía, Hemingway’s home for many years in Cuba.

For hotel accommodations, there is an extensive menu of options to accommodate different price points and desired locations. Some of the most famous ones are the Meliá Cohiba in the area of Vedado, the Hotel Nacional with breathtaking views of the Malecón, the Iberostar Parque Central, and the Hotel Saratoga in the 5-star category. The latter is famous for celebrities who have stayed there, such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z.

Viñales | Distance from Havana: Approx. 2.5 hours by Car

This small town is in Western Cuba, within the Pinar del Río Province. The area was once home to remnants of the Taíno population, a group known to be early native inhabitants on the Island. Today, it is a developing destination city, popular for eco-friendly activities that include hiking, flora and fauna watching, walking, and cycling.

Some of the landmarks to visit in Viñales are:

• The Valley of Viñales – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The Indian Cave
• The Cow Cave
• The Viñales Botanical Garden
• The Prehistoric Mural
• The Sacred Heart of Jesus Church

Viñales is part of all-inclusive, fun, and educational programs such as the delicious Yuca and Mojito Tour. This itinerary is ideal for food lovers and travelers who enjoy sampling local gastronomy. For an independent travel experience, you may want to consider the neighboring Hotel Pinar del Río, which is also close to tobacco plantations and nautical activities in the area.

Varadero | Distance from Havana: Approx. 2 hours by Car

Varadero is a beach resort and spa town located within the Province of Matanzas in Cuba, approximately two hours east of Havana. It is also known as Playa Azul or Blue Beach. The town’s crystalline blue waters can be seen from above when flying over the Island. Varadero offers many points of interest, such as:

• The Icacos Peninsula
• The Delfinario / Dolphinarium
• The Varahicacos Ecological Reserve
• The Xanadu Mansion
• The Museo Municipal / Municipal Museum

Stops in Varadero are part of many excursions and all-inclusive programs. One option is the Afro-Cuban Cultural Immersion Tour. This 5-day/4-night program will have you visiting Varadero on day three of the itinerary. It is also part of the Cigar and Rum Tour, a curated experience for travelers with interest in cigar and rum, which happens every year in sync with the International Habanos Festival. Varadero is also a daytime stop in the Morua-Maceo Project, a program that aims to build, strengthen, and showcase the Cuban-African diaspora throughout the Island.

Varadero is also the site of the World Music Festival and the Varadero Gourmet Festival. Both events are well attended and gather crowds from all over the world. Accommodation options for visitors are several, many of them along beautiful sandy beaches, with top amenities and even white-glove service.

Among the many options to consider is the 5-star Iberostar Varadero Hotel, a property favored for events and family holidays. Other all-inclusive hotels are the Be Live Experience Varadero Hotel and the Be Live Experience Turquesa Hotel, both 4-star hotels. Adults-only accommodations are also available. One option is the Roc Barlovento Hotel. If you are looking instead for a place the whole family can enjoy, you may also want to consider the Roc Arenas Doradas Hotel. Make sure to review the many hotel options available in Varadero.

Trinidad | Distance from Havana: Approx. 4 hours by Car

Trinidad is a Cuban city located in central Cuba, within the Province of Sancti Spiritus. Trinidad has also been recognized by the UNESCO as a city museum for sugar production, along with the nearby Valle de Los Ingenios. Both locations have also been designated as National Monuments by the Cuban nation.

Points of interest in the city of Trinidad include:

• Plaza Mayor
• El Cubano Natural Park
• Colonial Architecture Museum
• Church of the Holy Trinity
• Palacio Brunet and Palacio Cantero

An experienced agency, such as OnCuba Travel, can help you plan a visit to Trinidad, complete with transfer services, meals, points of interest, and hotel accommodations. Options for accommodations in Trinidad include The Iberostar Gran Trinidad Hotel. This hotel offers a 5-star experience in a 16th-century setting. It is complete with turndown service, a pillow menu, and other luxury amenities.

Santiago de Cuba | Distance from Havana: Approx. 11.25 hours by Car

Santiago de Cuba was the original capital of Cuba. Today, it is the second most important and second-largest city in Cuba, a must-see for the more experienced traveler. Santiago de Cuba is also the grounds for many landmarks, such as:

• Castillo de San Pedro de La Roca / The San Pedro de la Roca Castle
• La Gran Piedra / The Big Rock – A giant volcanic rock
• Santa Ifigenia Cemetery
• Céspedes Park
• Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral

This city is also known for being the birthplace of the Bacardi brand, founded in 1862 by Facundo Bacardi Masso. The Carnaval de Santiago de Cuba is also one of the most famous on the Island. The tradition dates to the 17th century. It is a significant public celebration with costumes, music, and parades.

Hotels to consider in Santiago de Cuba include the Meliá Santiago de Cuba, a 5-star hotel ideal for business or leisure travelers. The Iberostar Imperial Hotel and The Iberostar Casa Grande Hotel are also terrific 4-star hotels in Santiago. He Iberostar Casa Grande Hotel also enjoys a privileged location, right across from Céspedes Park.

Accommodations in Cuba

Cuba offers many accommodation options. Hotels range from 5-star properties with premier service to standard hotels that provide a clean and safe place to stay with basic amenities. Other options also include Casas Particulares or private homes. These are independently operated private homes that offer single room accommodations to entire apartments, and local other arrangements. Many of them offer a daily breakfast service and additional amenities for a fee. The experts at OnCuba Travel can assist you and your travel partners in selecting the best options in line with your itinerary and budget.

Car Rentals in Cuba

With so many things to see and places to visit, you may want to consider renting a car in Cuba. Options are available for economy, standard, and standard plus. OnCuba Travel can facilitate this process for you. They liaise with trusted local agencies, saving you time and effort by pairing you with a qualified car rental in Cuba. You can choose to pick up the car rental at José Martí International Airport or the OnCuba Travel office in Havana.

All-Inclusive Programs & Excursions

One of the best ways to explore Cuba is with curated programs or excursions. Many of these experiences offer local travel guides, which make it easier to learn about the history of each stop in the itinerary. Another advantage of booking all-inclusive programs and excursions is that many of them offer transportation to and from an area of interest. Several tours also include meals at the destinations, which facilitate the planning process.

Legal Travel to Cuba for U.S. Citizens

It is still possible for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba legally. Necessary documents include a visa/tourist card, one of the 11 approved reasons for travel, a valid U.S. passport, and a full itinerary with details of the stay. A professional travel agency specializing in Cuba, such as OnCuba Travel, can quickly help travelers navigate the requirements, compile the documentation, and facilitate certain documents, like the visas. Their team can also assist you in preparing a daily agenda in Cuba and providing travel tips to help you make the most of your stay.

Do you prefer to dance with pros, see award-winning art, or to run a marathon? The International Cuban Dance Festival, the Havana Biennial, and the Marabana Marathon are just some of the festivals and events exciting, diverse, and culturally rich Cuba hosts year after year. From book fairs to jazz festivals, and rambunctious carnivals, there is never a dull moment. To help travelers plan ahead, here is a guide to some of the most significant events in Cuba, from January through December.

January

The Havana Jazz Festival

The year of events starts with the famous Havana Jazz Festival, which just celebrated its 35th iteration. Cuban musician Jesús Valdés Rodríguez, better known as Chucho Valdés, is the artistic director of the festival, as well as president of the organizing committee. The festival combines outstanding jazz talent with up-and-coming artists in its showcase. Scheduled events take place across several concert halls in downtown Havana. However, impromptu performances also happen along the Malecón and other venues across the city. The 2020 event wrapped up earlier this year. The next rendition of the event will be on January 12th to the 17th, 2021.

February

Havana International Book Fair

The Havana International Book Fair is one of the most well-attended events in Havana. The hosting venue for the fair is the Fortaleza de San Carlos de La Cabaña, also known as La Cabaña. This 18th-century fortress sits on the eastern side of the Havana harbor. It is also next to the Morro Castle, forming the Morro-Cabaña Complex. The event gathers literary personalities, authors, and visitors alike. The event agenda also includes live performances, exhibits, and other well-attended events. Check back with us for 2021 dates.

The International Habanos Festival

Every year, the City of Havana welcomes visitors from all over the world to the Habanos Festival. Attendees range from connoisseurs and aficionados to celebrities and the curious. The event gathers exhibitors from major cigar companies and vendors for items like humidors and vintage collectibles. There is still time to join the ladies of Tres Lindas Cubanas Cigars in the Cigar and Rum Tour, an all-inclusive 5-day/4-night program which includes a day at the festival. The International Habanos Festival will be held from February 24th to the 29th in 2020.

March

The Havana World Music Festival

The Havana World Music Festival is relatively new. It is organized by the Black Tears rum label, which targets the younger generations of Cubans and visitors. A fun fact is that the rum label bears the name of a popular 1020s song called Lágrimas Negras or black tears by Cuban musician and composer Miguel Matamoros. The music on offer at the festival is also a mixture of traditional and more modern music, ranging from jazz to funk and Afro-Cuban beats. The event will run from March 26th to the 28th, 2020.

April

International Cuban Dance Festival

The International Cuban Dance Festival brings together top teachers, students, and dance lovers for seven days of non-stop salsa and other rhythms such as bolero, reggaeton, and cha-cha-cha with parties and other festival-related events. The event offers a full schedule of classes and related activities. Students flock from all over the world to have the opportunity to train with the best Cuban instructors to develop or perfect their dance skills. This annual festival will take place from April 20th to April 26th, 2020, in the City of Havana.

April/May

The Havana Biennial

The event is a large-scale art gathering. It welcomes over 200 artists from many countries and cultures. It seeks to present and promote art. It is also a platform for emerging and established Cuban artists who get handpicked to participate in the festival. It is a phenomenal opportunity for art lovers, career artists, collectors, and gallery owners to explore this art collective, take in the diversity, and the value the exhibitors have to offer. The Havana Biennial only takes place every two years. The next Havana Biennial will run from April 17th to April 24th, 2021. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait until 2021 to sample Cuban art. You may also want to consider a contemporary art tour of Havana, viewing classic and modern art in Havana, and meeting famous Cuban artist, Michel Mirabal.

June

Ernest Hemingway International Billfishing Tournament

This competitive fishing tournament was founded in the 50s by American author Ernest Hemingway. The competition is a recreational catch and release type of event, meaning that the fish are unhooked and returned to the water. Attendees and participants from up to 30 attend the event every year. Hemingway and now his granddaughter have both won the competition that takes place at the Hemingway International Yacht Club in Havana. The 70th Annual Ernest Hemingway International Billfishing Tournament will be taking place from June 8th to June 13th in 2020. If you would like to learn more about Hemingway’s life in Cuba during your stay at the tournament, you may also want to follow Hemingway’s steps in Havana with a guided excursion.

July

The Festival del Fuego

Also called Fiesta del Caribe or Festival del Fuego (Fire Festival), the festival takes place every year in the first weeks of July in the city of Santiago de Cuba. Speakers, guests, and musical groups from around the Caribbean participate in the event. Visitors can expect an exciting array of performances, including deejays, electronic music, and parades with vibrant costumes, exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and street fairs celebrating Afro-Caribbean culture. On the last day of the festival, there is a massive parade in honor of Cuban culture and beliefs, which concludes with the burning of a giant devil statue. The event will take place from July 1st to July 7th in 2020.

Carnival of Santiago de Cuba

The carnival of Santiago de Cuba is the largest, most famous, and most traditional celebration in all of Cuba. It takes place towards the end of July. Santiago de Cuba is the second biggest city after Havana. The summer carnival started as a period to celebrate the times when the sugarcane harvest season ended. Today, the festival continues as a tradition. It is an explosion of color, contagious drum rhythms, and congas. The event will take place from July 18th to July 27th, 2020.

August

Carnaval de la Habana

The Carnaval de la Habana or Havana’s Carnival is one of the island’s oldest and most traditional events. Attendees experience a spectacular display of traditional to contemporary rhythms, dancing, conga lines, fanciful outfits, fireworks, and effigies. Parades are held all along the Malecón. The carnival dates back several centuries to when black slaves held collective marches and dances to commemorate the days of Corpus Christi and the Epiphany. Throughout the carnival’s history, the diversity and evolution of the Cuban culture have been a shaping factor for the celebration. The festival was once canceled during the Special Period in Cuba, during the nineties, but returned once the country’s financial situation improved. Check back with us for 2020 dates.

September

Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad

September is not a popular month for events in Cuba, given that it is at the height of hurricane season. One of the events held locally is the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad. It usually starts on September 8th with a religious pilgrimage to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Cobre, close to Santiago de Cuba. This tradition honors Cuba’s patron saint, the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre (Lady of Charity), and her Yoruba counterpart, orisha Oshun.

October

The International Ballet Festival of Havana “Alicia Alonso.”

The Havana Ballet Festival is world renown and is Cuba’s most important ballet festival. Alicia Alonso, Cuba’s most famous and recognized prima ballerina, founded the festival in the 1960s. It is a gathering of dance companies from around the world, including the distinguished Cuban ballet companies. Venues hosting the event are the Alicia Alonso Gran Teatro de La Habana, and the Teatro America. In addition to the ballet showcase, the agenda for the festival includes art exhibits, conferences, and other cultural affairs. The event only happens once every two years. The next festival will run from October 27th to November 3rd, 2020. Cuba is also the home for more contemporary dance companies, such as Habana Compás, which offers performances throughout the year.

November

The Marabana Marathon

The Marabana Marathon is the biggest in Cuba. The event welcomes locals and foreigners every year. Attendees can challenge themselves with a full marathon and a half marathon. The upcoming Marabana Marathon will be on November 22nd, 2020. Fitness travelers should take advantage of this opportunity to accomplish at least two things, meet fitness goals and take in the scenery. With a few extra days, travelers could visit essential Havana landmarks with a Havana highlights tour by day or an evening stroll through the historic center of Havana.

December

The Havana Film Festival, also known as the Festival of New Latin-American Cinema of Havana. This event draws thousands of professionals from the film industry each year, promoting the latent talent originating from Latin America and the Caribbean. Famous past attendees of the event include Spanish Director Pedro Almodóvar, actors and directors like Robert Redford and Francis Ford Coppola, and notables like Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Recipients of the awards receive a Premio Coral. The ceremony recognizes top talent in the categories of Best Feature Film – Fiction, Best Feature Film – Documentary, Short Film and Feature Film (Fiction and Documentary), Best Opera Prima, Best Animated Film, Best Original Screenplay, Best Poster, Best Postproduction Editing, with other categories and awards for related roles.

Las Parrandas de Remedios

December also brings to Cuba Las Parrandas de Remedios, one of the country’s most high-spirited festivals! The Parrandas typically take place in the days before Christmas. Some of the events happening simultaneously across different cities and towns in Cuba include parades, celebrations, lights, music, and dancing. This festival is said to have started as a way to attract more churchgoers to mass before holidays in the old town of Remedios. Now several cities and towns in the country celebrate Las Parrandas and compete for who has the best and loudest celebration!

Legal Travel to Cuba from the U.S.

As you can see, there is a flurry of events taking place in Cuba throughout the year. To get there, you may want to consider working with an established and professional agency specializing in travel to Cuba, such as OnCuba Travel. Their team will help you with your travel needs and walk you through the requirements – such as visas – to flight bookings, airport transfers in Havana, and trusted accommodation options in hotels or private homes, and more.

Cubans enjoy the experience of cooking and sharing with others. It is ingrained in their culture that where two can eat, so can three. Food and cooking are at the center of a lot of their interactions, whether it is about spending time with family, friends, and even in more professional settings. Cuba is generous to share its cuisine with the world. It hosts various large-scale events throughout the year that range from workshops such as the Taller Culinario Cuba Sabe to festivals such as Culinaria.

Cuba is a bona fide destination for foodies and those who just want to learn how to make Cuban dishes in its authentic Cuban setting. Eateries abound in the Cuban capital of Havana. Across the various offerings, one can appreciate the blends of styles and influences that played a role in developing what is known today as Cuban Cuisine. In this blog, we will explore the origins of popular Cuban staples, what they are today, and how anyone can take part in the joys of learning more about Cuban Cuisine.

A Brief History of Food Arrivals in Cuba

Just as it is with culture, Cuba has Spanish, African, Taino, and Caribbean cuisine influences. Although Spanish and African were the biggest influences in Cuban, it also had influences from the Chinese, Portuguese, Arabic, Italian, and French cuisine. We must remember that Havana was a trading port during the colonial era. Many immigrants passed through the island, starting with the discovery of Cuba in 1492. The largest groups were the Spanish, the African, and later the Chinese. All brought with them a variety of plants, animals, spices, cooking techniques, and more, which contributed to what is known as Cuban food today.

Early Cuban inhabitants were Taino natives. They had an organic style of living and sourced their food by hunting, gathering, and fishing. Their crops included maize, black beans, cassava, and yams. Upon the arrival of the Spanish, a vast majority succumbed to new diseases and forced labor. The Spanish brought with them their ingredients too. Citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, arrived in Cuba during this time, as did Spanish rice. Amongst the animals to enter during colonial times were pigs and cattle. You will find that both sources are still palpably present across Cuban cuisine today!

African groups were then brought to Cuba as slaves to perform hard labor in mines and plantations. Although they were not able to bring much with them to Cuba, they did bring their ingenuity and cooking styles, using ingredients like okra, plantains, and cassava. After the abolishment of slavery during the late 1800s, there was an influx of Chinese laborers on the island. At the time, Chinese immigrants took on the work that was formerly done by African slaves. Amongst the elements brought by the Chinese were rice and soy sauce. Since then, rice has been a staple in Cuban cuisine.

Around the time of the Cuban revolution in the 1960s, Cubans changed the way they ate once again. Many chefs and restaurant owners also fled the island, giving way to more simple foods and methods of preparing them. As relationships grew closer with the Soviet Union, products like yogurt and wheat came into the Cuban diet, giving way to foods like pasta and pizza. The time during the Cold War also played a role in the availability of goods for Cubans, since they could not import from the U.S. It is the reason why today there is very little U.S. influence on Cuban food.

Popular Cuban Staples & Dishes

Cuba’s climate and soil have played a role in what we have come to know as the Cuban staples. Tropical fruits, such as pineapples, and root vegetables, such as yucca, boniato, and malanga, are widely used in the Cuban diet. Anyone who knows a real Cuban has likely heard that malanga – whether boiled, creamed, or mashed – helps relieve many ailments! Rice and bananas are other popular staples.

Combinations of root vegetables and fruits such as yucca, pumpkin, plantain, and boniato are sometimes called viandas and used together in soups and stews. The traditional Ajiaco Cubano has such a combination of viandas. This dish is said to have been around since before the Spanish arrived in Cuba. The combination of ingredients, including the viandas, have changed throughout history to what it is today — a hearty dish served with corn in a generous bowl.

A ubiquitous dish for Cubans is Arroz congrí, also known as Moros y Cristianos. It consists of mixed black beans and rice. This dish is a combination of the rice that came from the Spanish and African cooking techniques. Congrí is often a side dish. Other popular sides include cut and fried plantains, plain white rice, and a simple salad with olive oil. One popular Cuban side dish, tostones, are made with plantains that are flattened and fried. Tostones resulted from the African influence in Cuba.

Chicken is a popular base for many Cuban dishes. One typical chicken-based dish in Cuba for gatherings is Arroz con Pollo. Most families have their way of making this creamy chicken and rice dish. The essential ingredients are chicken thighs, peas, and red peppers, with salt, garlic, and pepper to taste. The chicken comes out very tender. The dish often gets its yellow coloring from an annatto-based food powder. Do not ask me why, but I tend to add ketchup to mine! The well-known Fricasé de Pollo is popular too. The ingredients may vary from place to place, but the essential checklist for the Fricasé includes chicken, potatoes, tomato puré, white wine, oil, and other spices to taste.

Another prevalent dish in Cuban cuisine is the traditional Ropa Vieja, which translates to old clothes. This dish combines shredded beef and a sauce consisting of natural meat juices, onions, and garlic. Another famous meat-based dish is Picadillo. It often consists of ground meat with olives, peppers, and raisins. Note that all recipes may vary by the cook or chef, who tends to add their flavor to every recipe.

Some of you may have also heard about the famous Caja China, which translates to the Chinese Box. This style of cooking inside a box was influenced by the Chinese, as they used to cook inside wooden boxes. Cubans then adopted the Caja China. It is still widely used today to cook pork, as it leaves the skin crispy and the meat tender.

Although Cuban food does not generally employ a lot of spices or spicy condiments, Cubans do enjoy their sauces and bases, such as the sofrito. It consists of chopped peppers, onions, and tomatoes, or tomato paste, all lightly fried in olive oil. Cubans also make a sauce called Mojo. Mojo (p. moho) is a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Sometimes the garlic is lightly fried first. The sauce is poured over root vegetables like boiled yucca or to dip fried yuca bits. To learn more about traditional Cuban dishes, visit the Essential Guide to Eat Food Like a Cuban.

Cooking Classes in Cuba

If you would like to learn how to make a Cuban Mojito and Ajiaco, there is a great excursion you can take! Out in the fishing town of Cojímar, in the outskirts of Havana, rests Café Ajiaco. It is a rustic place, with wooden chairs and ceilings, clay bowls, and authentic Cuban flavor. The staff at this establishment is very attentive and welcoming. During a visit to Café Ajiaco, travelers can put on their aprons and learn how to make authentic dishes such as Ajiaco Cubano, Ropa Vieja, Enchilado de Langosta y Camarones, Black Beans, and White Rice. This chef guided cooking exploration will also leave participants with a background of Cuban Cuisine, ingredients used, and how food became such an essential part of the Cuban culture.

The experience also includes a welcome beverage and a demonstration on how to prepare a Mojito Ajiaco, the house signature drink. This traditional Cuban cocktail combines the right amounts of honey, aged rum, mint, and soda water. It is then garnished with ají chai. Participants also receive an apron as a souvenir to remember the experience.

If your main goal is to sample delicious cuisine in Cuba, you can also try a Farm-to-table experience. A restaurant paladar called Mediterráneo Habana was the first to introduce the farm-to-table experience in Havana. This style of cooking fosters to use of organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s ambiance resembles an al-fresco dining experience. The menu excels in flavorful meats and cheeses, delicious sauces, and superb desserts. To learn more about culinary adventures in Cuba, contact the knowledgeable team at OnCuba Travel to find the right gastronomic match for your palate.

Preparing A Custom Trip to Cuba

Cooking is just one of many exciting activities you can do while visiting Cuba and an often-overlooked one! Cuban food is very flavorful. If you would like to learn more about how to plan a custom trip to Cuba around your interests, contact the knowledgeable team at OnCuba Travel. They can assist you with planning and agenda full of activities like Havana vintage car tours across Old Havana and the historic Malecón de la Habana.

Another daylong or half-day excursion could be about discovering Havana Highlights. Over 3.5 hours, you could explore el Cristo de la Habana and its scenic hilltop views, the historic Cementerio de Cristobal Colón in Havana and its famous marble sculptures, tour the landmark Malecón, view the city and the bay from the Tres Reyes del Morro Castle, and more. Travelers may also enjoy visiting the best of Cuban rum, cigars, and art with a carefully curated 4-hour excursion. There is something for everyone.

The knowledgeable team at OnCuba Travel can help you select the best itinerary for your schedule and budget. They can also help you plan legal travel from the U.S. and Cuba. The team can facilitate getting your visa to travel to Cuba, selecting your reason for travel, booking roundtrip flights to Cuba from Miami and other cities, renting a car for pickup at the airport in Havana, and so much more. OnCuba Travel also takes great care in educating travelers before a trip with informational materials based on their selected excursions or all-inclusive programs in Cuba. They go the distance to give travelers exceptional customer service and enjoyable overall travel experience. Learn more about OnCuba Travel to start planning your first or next trip to Cuba.

Growing up multicultural, it became very evident early on know how important music is to Cubans. There was never a birthday party or holiday celebration without music during my winter visits to Miami. My big Cuban family always managed to work in dancing and celebration into everything they did. As I have become more familiar with Cuban culture, I also have a better understanding of how important culture and education is to Cubans.

Cuba has an endless supply of talent in the realm of culture, especially when it comes to music and art. Music for Cubans is second nature. Whether it’s Afro-Cuban Jazz, Salsa, or Punto Guajiro, there is always a form of foot-tapping taking place. In Cuba, it is widespread to find street musicians playing a single instrument or an ensemble playing a full set alongside stilt walkers at one of Havana’s famous squares. In honor of the upcoming Havana Jazz Festival, in this blog, I’ll share with you a little more about the history of Afro-Cuban Jazz.

Beginnings of Afro-Cuban Jazz

Afro-Cuban Jazz is considered one of the earliest forms of Latin Jazz. In the beginning, Afro-Cuban Jazz was more popular in the United States than in Cuba. Sources say that both Jazz in Cuba and Afro-Cuban Jazz in the U.S. developed parallel to each other. Some of the early adaptations of Afro-Cuban Jazz went down in history as originating in New York.

Mauro Bauzá and his band, Machito and his Afro-Cubans, are considered pioneers of the genre. The group adopted the musical style in the 1940s. Bauzá’s band also received credit for the first Afro-Cuban Jazz single called “Tangá.” The song has several musical improvisations. Because the genre originated during the time of segregation in the U.S., the band often received requests to remove Afro-Cuban from their references. They always declined the requests and preferred not to play at these venues. The catalysts of Afro-Cuban Jazz, however, date further back.

Slave owners were afraid their slaves would start uprisings, so they were allowed music as recreation. Many may not know that once slavery became abolished in Cuba during the late 1800s, many black Cubans migrated to New Orleans, LA, in the United States. During a period, people could also commute between Havana and New Orleans by ferry. This exchange originated many musical collaborations and blending of sounds.

Some of the instruments used for earlier Afro-Cuban Jazz were the drums and the bongo. Later, through more exchanges, other instruments like the congas and saxophone were added. Rhythms for Afro-Cuban Jazz come from the clave, which is a rhythmic pattern, and the habanera, the first written music rhythmically based on an African motif. The habanera has been credited to Cuban musician Miguel Failde and dates back to the late 1800s. Cuban motifs were incorporated in African-American music when the habanera gained international popularity during the 19th century.

Cuban Jazz, meanwhile, was also forming in Cuba during the 1920s. In the beginning, the bands played North American Jazz and popular Cuban music. The first contributor to the Afro-Cuban Jazz movement was a band called Irakere. Amongst its members were pianist Chucho Valdéz who served as director, and Paquito D’Rivera, a saxophonist who also served as Assistant Director.

An interesting fact is that some of the members of Irakere did not like the mix of Afro-Cuban elements and Jazz. They felt they were covering up their real love for Jazz. Other famous Cuban jazz musicians include pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba, saxophonist Tony Martinez, drummer Dafnis Prieto, and award-winning Afro-Cuban jazz singer Daymé Arocena.

If you would like to learn more about the African influence in Cuba, you may want to consider an Afro-Cuban Cultural Immersion Tour. This 5-day/4-night, all-inclusive tour in Cuba includes visits to the slave routes and an exploration of Afro-Cuban dance, music, religion, and culture. This type of program also consists of the top Havana highlights, cuisine and cigar samplings, and a panoramic tour of Havana on a classic convertible. It is the perfect blend of culture and attractions on the beautiful Island of Cuba.

Coming up in January – Havana Jazz Festival

This year the 35th Havana Jazz Festival will be taking place from January 15th – 20th, 2020. The festival saw its origins in the late 1970s, as a group of Cuban musicians performed in the Casa de la Cultura de Plaza in Havana. Based on the success of the first iteration of the event, the festival continued. Eventually, Cuban musician Jesús Valdés Rodríguez, better known as Chucho Valdés, became the artistic director of the festival, as well as president of the organizing committee.

The festival now takes place across several concert halls in downtown Havana. Impromptu performances also take place along the Malecón and other venues. Some of the famous musicians who have visited Cuba for the festival include composer, conductor, and singer David Amram, who composed the soundtrack for the movie Manchurian Candidate. Three-time Grammy and Tony Award-winning singer-songwriter and actress, Dee Dee Bridgewater, also frequents the festival. The Havana Jazz Festival 2020 lineup includes Chucho Valdés, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cimafunk, Carlos Varela, Anders Osborne, The Soul Rebels, Tank and the Bangas, amongst other artists scheduled to perform at the festival.

Other Famous Performances in Havana

If you are musically inclined and would like to learn more about other famous performances in Havana, you may also want to visit the Tropicana Cabaret, the Parisien Cabaret, or the Vista Social Club. The Tropicana Cabaret continues to be reminiscent of the era of euphoria and excess of Cuba from the 1950s. Over 200 hundred performers – dancers and musicians – get onstage in full costume. The beautiful and historic outdoor venue has seen performances by Nat King Cole and Josephine Baker. Celebrities such as Rita Hayworth, Marlon Brando, and many others also frequented the Tropicana. For another spectacular performance, you may also want to visit the Parisien.

The Cabaret Parisien has some similarities with the Tropicana in that it also has a full cast in elaborate costumes. The Parisien is on the grounds of the historic Hotel Nacional in Havana. The venue is very charming when compared to the Tropicana, but it is still a Vegas-style performance in a more intimate setting. If you prefer live music and perhaps some dancing, you may also consider visiting the Buena Vista Social Club.

The Buena Vista Social Club is within the centrally located Meliá Cohiba Hotel. It is a highly interactive show. The performers are a combination of a full band with singers, a host, and a lively dance group with animated choreographies. The ambiance is relaxed and casual. The venue has several vintage artifacts, airplanes, and even a motorcycle. The walls of the club are also lined with portraits of famous people that have graced the club. If you want to dance, this will be a fun experience, since the dancers may invite the audience onstage to join in on the fun.

Getting to Cuba can be easy

As with any international travel, traveling from the U.S. to Cuba has specific requirements. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba legally by purchasing a tourist card/visa, by selecting one of the allowed 11 reasons for travel, and by having available a full agenda that is relevant to their reason chosen for travel. Gathering these documents and selecting the right category can seem complicated. The process can easier and much more straightforward by working with a professional agency specialized in travel to Cuba like OnCuba Travel.

OnCuba Travel has a team in the U.S. and a local office in Havana, Cuba, close to the Malecón. The travel agents can also guide you to select excursions and other activities to meet your travel goals, with both your budget and timelines in mind. The agency can also help you arrange a car rental for pickup at the airport in Havana or transfers from the airport to your accommodation. The experienced agents at OnCuba Travel can also assist you in booking single services like hotels in Cuba or private homes called casas particulares, round trip flights to Cuba from Miami or other cities across the U.S., and other services. Contact the agency to get started with your travel plans.

Reminder! Don’t forget that the 22nd Habanos Festival is coming up in Cuba from February 24th to February 29th, 2020. Travelers can take advantage of available cigar and rum tours, like the one available through OnCuba Travel. The tour includes a day at the Habanos Festival, a behind the scenes tour of a real cigar factory, visits to the Cuban tobacco region, and a discovery of the history of tobacco production in Cuba. The all-inclusive adventure includes visits to several cigar Casa del Habano shops, including a stop at the majestic Hotel Nacional in Havana, and fabulous Cuban cuisine. It is a terrific opportunity to enjoy Old Havana, the resort town of Varadero, the verdant Viñales, Matanzas, and so much more. Contact OnCuba Travel to learn more.

Fancy a mojito?

Longing for some Cuban rice and beans? Are you looking forward to sinking your teeth into a piece of flan? Next time in the blog, we will do a culinary tour of authentic Cuban cuisine. I will go over some essential Cuban foods, drinks, and sweets a traveler must have during a visit. The history behind the origins of different plants and foods to Cuba is fascinating, and I cannot wait to share more with you. I will also include some recommendations of privately-owned restaurants called paladares to try for different types of cuisine and how to make the most out of an upcoming visit to Cuba.

Cuba is an extraordinary and unique country in many ways. Two of its fine gifts often stand out amongst the best in the world. These are Cuban rum and Cuban cigars. Cuba is known as the birthplace of the Mojito and the Daiquirí, both rum-based drinks whom American Author, Ernest Hemingway, was known to have mentioned in one of his memorable quotes, “My mojito in La Bodeguita, my daiquiri in El Floridita.” The country is also a top producer of Cuban cigars, often referred to as habanos. Connoisseurs, aficionados, and celebrities gather every year in the City of Havana to attend the Festival del Habano. In 2020 the City of Havana will be hosting the 22nd edition of the Festival.

The team at OnCuba Travel has prepared an immersive and all-inclusive 5-day and 4-night itinerary for the Cigar and Rum Tour of a lifetime, which includes admission to the 22nd Habanos Festival. The program will also include an exploration of Cuban culture, Havana highlights, exquisite cuisine, tastings, and many opportunities to sample cigars. The hosts of the program are the ladies of Tres Lindas Cubanas Cigars, dynamic twin sister duo Yvonne and Yvette. For 2020, the Festival will be taking place from February 24th to the 28th.

Festival Internacional del Habano

Upon arriving in the Cuban capital of Havana, your OnCuba Travel host will welcome you. Then, you will travel by car to the Festival Internacional del Habano. Here you will have an opportunity to meet cigar experts and aficionados from all over the world. Take advantage of this experience to the fullest. Engage in conversations with the knowledgeable and experienced staff from the Festival and the many exhibitors. Last year I had the opportunity to speak to a gentleman who started as an apprentice cigar roller. After years of training and experience, he mastered the skill. He then became the master who trained apprentices in the art of cigar rolling.

During the Festival, visitors will be able to watch expert cigar rollers at work and learn about every stage of cigarmaking. The Festival will have demonstrations, but also previews of exclusive products and is often a platform for product launches. Visitors can also take this opportunity to explore different types of humidors, unique vitolas, collector’s and one-of-a-kind items, carved figures, and even rare vintage items from the time before the Cuban revolution.

There is an international culture surrounding habanos, from how to light them and savor them to how to pair them with food and beverage successfully. To learn more about the different types of vitolas (or even what these are), read an overview of how to light a cigar correctly, and how to pair them to get the best flavor, visit the blogs A Constellation of Cuban Cigars With Style – Part 1 and Part 2.

Backstage Tour of a Real Cigar Factory

Walking the hallways of a real cigar factory is a unique experience. Being able to watch these artisans at work and learning about the step-by-step process of cigar making allows for a deep appreciation of this art form. Workers have different stations, from separating the types of tobacco leaves to rolling cigars to the desired sizes, compacting them, cutting, and packaging requires a disciplined and coordinated effort. The guide that accompanies the group also offers lots of detailed insight into the art of cigar making and the history of tobacco in Cuba.

Participants will also visit the Montesino Tobacco Farm in Pinar del Río as part of the experience. The farm is about an hour from Havana. This area is well-known for being one of the top producers of quality tobacco leaves in Cuba. Here you will be able to piece together the process, from how tobacco is grown, to how it is processed before it makes its way to a factory, and finally to shops for consumers.

As part of the itinerary, there will be several stops in Casa del Habano shops like the one at the Museo del Tabaco, the shop at the Habana Libre Hotel, and the shop at the famous Meliá Cohiba Hotel. Other cigars shop visits may also include Hotel Parque Central Tobacco shop, the Partagás shop, and Hotel Conde de Villanueva Tobacco Shop. Another stop will be at the Casa del Habano in the historic Hotel National de Cuba. The view from the back of the hotel, towards the Malecón, are breathtaking. It’s one of the many spots that make you truly appreciate what makes this trip worthwhile, all while you sip cocktails and perhaps enjoy a cigar. Group members will also have opportunities to buy cigars, rum, and other items for personal use.

History of Rum in Cuba

The itinerary will continue with the history of rum in the Museo del Ron in Old Havana. The museum tells the story of rum, and more specifically, the tale of Havana Club Rum. It offers a unique and detailed insider’s look at how this rum came to be.

The inside of the museum houses memorabilia from the stages of rum production to items of nostalgia, such as a giant train set, and a film that includes several vintage elements. Towards the end of the tour, visitors will also have an opportunity to taste and shop the famous rum in many sizes and packaging options. One of my favorite parts of this visit was the very animated and multilingual tour guide that hosted our group.

Tour Old Havana in a Vintage Convertible

In addition to the walking portion of the tour, which will include parts of the famous Prado Avenue, one of the best ways to tour Old Havana is in a vintage car! Enjoy the City of Havana with a panoramic and unobstructed view. Take in the sights of the Malecón, drive in front of the famous and recently restored Capitolio building, see the José Martí Memorial and other parts of the city in this unique mode of transportation. The vintage cars come in many models and colors. Some of the vehicles are worthy of a showroom and a collector’s dream, yet they are driven freely in Havana. The vintage cars are also much fun when taking colorful pictures of the experience to share with friends and loved ones back home.

Within Old Havana, you will also visit La Bodeguita del Medio, famous for being one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite places and the birthplace of the Mojito! There will also be opportunities to shop for souvenirs at stops like the Almacenes San José Artisans’ Market and El Palacio de la Artesania, set in an old mansion on the water. These crafts markets will give all just a glimpse of the talent and skill level of Cuban artists and artisans.

Discover Exquisite Cuban Cuisine

During the visit to Cuba, in this tour, you will visit several established and independently owned Cuban restaurants called Paladares. These will range from traditional to modern fusion cuisine. One of the places you will visit will be the Mediterráneo Havana, which is a farm-to-table restaurant with the freshest ingredients, all locally sourced. The restaurant is known for its natural meat and cheese boards, flavorful sauces, and dairy fresh ice cream.

In this culinary adventure, you will also visit Paladar Doña Eutimia. This traditional restaurant is in Plaza de La Catedral, one of the highlights you will explore on a walking tour of Old Havana. The restaurant is famous for its flavorful cuisine in a relaxed and casual setting. L’Atelier Paladar Restaurant is another highlight in this tour. This restaurant offers Cuban fusion cuisine in a beautiful old house converted into a restaurant. The ambiance helps set the tone for dinner in this artistically inclined and delicious culinary experience. Food truly becomes an art form here!

This journey of flavors also includes San Cristóbal Paladar. This establishment became more broadly known after it received a visit from former U.S. president, Barack Obama. The restaurant is full of details and collections of items such as clocks, religious figures, antiques, and many other rare items. The presentation of their food is as elaborate as their décor. One of the things I appreciated about this restaurant was the level of attention to detail the staff went into when serving and presenting each provocative course.

Tour Old Havana in a Vintage Convertible

In addition to the walking portion of the tour, which will include a part of the famous Prado Avenue, one of the best ways to tour Old Havana is on a vintage car! Enjoy the City of Havana with a panoramic and unobstructed tour. Take in the sights of the Malecón, drive in front of the famous and recently restored Capitolio building, see the monument a Martí, and other parts of the city in this unique mode of transportation. The vintage cars come in many models and colors. Some of the vehicles are worthy of a showroom, yet they are driven freely in Havana. The vintage cars are also appealing when taking colorful pictures of the experience to share with friends and loved ones back home.

Within Old Havana, you will also visit La Bodeguita del Medio, famous for being one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite places and the birthplace of the Mojito! There will also be opportunities to shop for souvenirs at places like the Almacenes San José Artisans’ Market and El Palacio de la Artesania, set in an old mansion on the water.

Delve Into the Slave Route in Cuba & The City of Matanzas

A visit to Cuba would not be complete without an immersive view of its culture. Matanzas is a city located about 55 miles from Havana. It is known for its connection to Afro-Cuban history and culture. One of the stops of the Cigar And Rum Tour is the San Severino Castle in Matanzas. This castle once served to protect the city. It was destroyed in the 1700s in a drastic attempt to prevent it from being taken over by the British. The castle was rebuilt later, once Havana returned to the Spanish. Today, it is part of the Slave Route Project and houses the Museum of the Slave Route, which demonstrates the influence of Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean in the local culture.

This cultural experience will also have a visit to The Casa de Africa Museum. The museum houses several artifacts that tell the stories behind the African influences on Cuban arts and culture. Another essential stop is at the Museo de Los Orishas in Havana. This unique museum, also a temple, offers excellent insight into the history of the Yoruba religion and the Orishas – the Yoruba deities – in Cuba. The museum has several full-size figures that represent many of the Orishas. Each deity has a collection area for gifts, called ofrendas, that visitors bring. These are usually in the form of the shapes, elements, and colors that each one of the Orishas represents.

Explore Viñales & Visit Varadero

Last, but certainly not least, the group will visit the Valley of Viñales and the resort area of Varadero. The UNESCO has recognized the beautiful and almost undisturbed area of Viñales as a World Heritage site. Is it an eco-friendly paradise. While in Viñales, travelers will also visit the Mural de la Pre-Historia, an almost 400-foot-long painting on the side of a cliff. The painting depicts the theory of evolution. To round up the tour, the group will enjoy an afternoon in Varadero, overlooking its natural beauty and crystalline waters.

Ready to get started?

Hopefully, I have managed to pique your interest in visiting the beautiful Island of Cuba. This program covers a lot of areas of interest over a relatively short period of time. The team at OnCuba Travel handles the logistics flawlessly, making the travel experience very enjoyable. The best part is that an all-inclusive program will include roundtrip flights, accommodations, several meals, and transportation. It is a great way to minimize worry and maximize the experience. If you would like to learn more about this and other all-inclusive programs, contact OnCuba Travel. If you prefer to make a custom program, their knowledgeable team can also assist you in finding the best flights to Havana, accommodations in Cuba, airport transfers in Havana, a car rental for pickup at the airport in Havana and other locations, as well as specialized half and full-day excursions. Don’t take risks and work instead with a professional agency specialized in legal travel to Cuba, like OnCuba Travel.

While 2019 has been a year of tense relationships between the United States and Cuba, yes, U.S. citizens can still travel to Cuba from the United States. Although regulations have changed throughout 2019, Cuba is still a destination that U.S. citizens can and should consider going to Cuba. The country offers many opportunities for education, information, and awe. Cuba is a destination rich in history, architecture, gastronomy, beauty, diversity, and local warmth.

As you plan your upcoming trip to Cuba, it is to your advantage to gain an understanding of the most recent changes in travel policy. Here is a recap with some of the most impactful changes regarding travel to Cuba for U.S. citizens established this year, as well as some helpful lists and articles about planning a legal trip to Cuba. The changes are relevant for ways to travel, points of arrival on the island, where to stay, and more.

Travel to Cuba – Changes in Transportation and Reasons for Travel

In June 2019, the Office of Foreign Asset Control, also known as the OFAC, made effective significant changes to travel to Cuba policy. The first change was that use of the “people to people exchange” reason for travel was no longer allowed. Despite this change, 11 categories for travel still remain a possibility to go to Cuba. The Support for the Cuban People category is one of the broadest available. By traveling to Cuba, having exchanges with Cuban people, eating in privately owned restaurants (Called paladares), and staying in privately-owned casas particulares travelers can help satisfy this category’s requirements. The OnCuba Travel blog offers some great ideas on how to plan a Support for the Cuban People trip to Cuba, as well as a list of the top 10 things to do in Havana.

The other significant change the OFAC brought about was that travel to Cuba was no longer allowed by private vessels, such as private airplanes or boats departing from a U.S. port. This tightening in the regulations also limited travel by cruise ships to Cuba from U.S. ports. Although these changes affected pre-booked travel plans for many, U.S. citizens could still travel to Cuba by commercial airlines.

Flights to Havana are available from multiple destinations. One popular point of departure is the City of Miami in Florida. Flights from Miami are relatively short as the flight is roughly 45min., perfect for a weekend or holiday trip. Several carriers currently offer flights to Cuba. To learn more about flights to Cuba, visit the flights page offered by OnCuba Travel. To learn more about the June 2019 changes, you may also visit the blog Travel To Cuba For Americans Series – Traveling To Cuba Under New Policy.

Flights to Cuba – U.S. Airlines Can Only Fly Into Havana

As of December 10th, 2019, the latest change affects the points of arrival in Cuba. Travel by U.S. airlines is now only allowed into the City of Havana. Although this may represent some detours for travel plans, there are many ways to continue your scheduled activities in other regions in Cuba. U.S. citizens are still able to hire a car service for transfers to other planned activities or rent a car at the airport in Havana.

Alternative ways to get around in Havana include the charming Almendrones, which are the popular vintage cars, and the creative Coco Taxis, named this way because their shape resembles a coconut. A professional agency such as OnCuba Travel has an extensive network of local contacts with trusted and reliable resources for transportation. To learn more about other unique forms of transportation, visit the blog Take a Ride on One of These in Cuba!

Restricted Hotels & Other Entities in Cuba

The U.S. Department of State also makes available for travelers a list of hotels and other entities with which U.S. citizens should not make any direct financial transactions. Areas with restricted properties include Old Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Varadero, Pinar del Río, Baracoa, Cayos de Villa Clara, Holguín, and other cities in Cuba. The list also includes stores in Old Havana. The list is available for review in the U.S. Department of State website. Even with the restrictions, there are still many accommodation options for U.S. travelers in Cuba.

OnCuba Travel has curated a list with a wide range of hotels, ranging from those with the necessary amenities to all-inclusive hotels and resorts offering a white glove, personalized service. Some of the properties available for U.S. travelers include the 5-star Meliá Cohiba, located across from the historical and famous Malecón de La Habana, and the Hotel Saratoga, also known for its celebrity guests which include Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Other carefully selected properties are available across Cuba in Havana, Cienfuegos, Varadero, Pinar del Río, and many other locations. Visit the hotel page on the agency’s website to learn more about the range of hotels in Cuba, each with a brief overview of amenities and available services.

Travelers also have the alternative to stay at one of the many casas particulares across the island. Options can vary widely, since these private homes could range from entirely independent apartments to individual efficiency units within homes, to private rooms within the host family’s home. The accommodation may also be inside a more modern house or in a charming historic home. The locations may also vary from the downtown city center to more distant, but still accessible.

Some of the private homes may include a private bathroom, a kitchen with some basics like plates and cups, towels, and other amenities. Additional appliances and toiletries may also be available by asking the host or for a nominal fee. Some of the casas may also include or offer a daily breakfast with basics like eggs and coffee, to fresh fruit, ham, warm bread, and other food varieties.

A private home accommodation may be more convenient or preferred by someone who seeks a more authentic experience. It also presents a terrific opportunity to speak to locals about life in Cuba. If the traveler selects the Support for the Cuban People reason for travel, staying at a local home and having a conversation with the hosts would help fulfill this reason for travel, as it promotes intellectual exchanges with locals and helps support the host family’s economy. Learning about the locals’ way of life and outlook can be very enlightening and informative. They may also offer suggestions on specific things to see and do, in line with your daily agenda. I will forever be grateful to the host that helped me with a quick wash and iron for a dress during a recent visit.

Why Should I Travel to Cuba With an Agency?

Working with a professional travel agency has many benefits. The first and likely most significant advantage is that an agency that specializes in travel to Cuba will be aware of all the changes to travel policies. They will ensure an optimal and compliant travel experience for both their solo and group travelers. As you prepare for your trip to Cuba, a specialized agency such as OnCuba Travel can be a tremendous asset to meet all the requirements to travel to Cuba.

OnCuba Travel is a Miami and Havana based travel agency. It supports its travelers with gathering all the visa/travel card requirements and completing all required forms. The agency can also assist with the selection of flights, transportation, and accommodation for their travelers. They can also help you plan a full agenda of activities in line with the purpose of your trip. OnCuba Travel offers a variety of half and full-day land excursions to meet a broad range of interests and desired levels of activity. They also have a selection of all-inclusive, multi-day programs that already include travel and transportation.

If you prefer to create your own experience, the agency’s professional team of travel agents can also help you customize your program to travel to Cuba with hotel bookings or accommodation at a casa particular, car rental needs, airport transfers, and customized activities to best meet your trip’s purpose and budget.

How Can I Create A Custom Trip to Cuba?

The reasons to travel to Cuba can be many. Maybe it’s part of your heritage and you would like to connect more with your roots. Perhaps it’s that one destination you want to check off your bucket list with an opportunity to give back to the locals. It may also be the once-in-a-lifetime trip a loved one would like you to accompany him or her on or the trip you want to make before a major life transition. Whichever your reason for travel is, there is always a good reason to travel to Cuba.

On the next blog, I will share the best tips and tricks to create a custom group program to travel to Cuba for two or more people. We will explore together some of the most important considerations to make when visiting Cuba – from how to select your daily activities to how to get around. I will also cover those top places to see and things to do during your stay, as well as some top recommendations on what to eat and where to dine while in the island.

The experience is also more relaxed by working with a knowledgeable partner by your side, such as an experienced travel agent from OnCuba Travel. Knowing the ins and outs of the destination and the customs of the locals can enrich and enhance the travel experience. The travel agents at OnCuba are available to assist you with any questions and to help you plan your dream trip to Cuba.