Cuba´s capital will captivate you not just with its history and impressive architecture but also draw you in with its vibrant palette of colours, its joyous sounds, and its warm hospitality. It´s truly a unique travel experience – not just for the Caribbean and Latin America, but arguably in the entire world.
A Colourful Trip Back in Time, But with Modern Flourishes
The first thing you´ll likely notice once you get here is the visual impact of its vibrantly coloured colonial and early-20th-century buildings, as well as the street murals adorning walls across many of its neighbourhoods. Each piece has a story that counts, a story that is reflected in its architecture and that transports you to past eras, while keeping you connected to the energy of today.
The city’s facades – at least outside the restored gems of Old Havana – definitely show the wear and tear of time and massive neglect since 1959, but their beauty and majesty linger, a reminder of the city’s greatness during the colonial and early republican era. And its people have managed to preserve and transform at least some of these structures, giving them new layers of color and life. And you´ll also find a meeting of old and new – for example in the form of classic 1950s cars parked in front of the Vedado district´s cutting edge, three-year-old Gran Aston La Habana. Or a chic, world-class gourmet restaurant in the middle of a handsome, century-old palazzo.
A Living Musical Canvas
Havana´s not just a feast for the eyes but also a symphony for the ears, with its sounds just as vibrant as its colors. Music is everywhere, from impromptu performances in its squares to the many bars, clubs, and restaurants where salsa, jazz, and Cuban son float across the air. Various parts of the city are veritable temples to music, and every corner has something to offer lovers of Caribbean rhythms. Walking through Old Havana especially, you´ll feel the music enveloping you and making you want dance.
Flavour and Tradition in Every Dish and Glass
As important as its feast for the eyes and ears is Havana´s cornucopia for the taste buds. The fresh, authentic flavours of the island come across in every dish, from a simple, classic ropa vieja (shredded beed in a light tomato sauce) to an exquisite grilled lobster. The city’s restaurants, both upmarket and small family-run paladares, serve up an incredible variety of flavors that reflect the island’s cultural heritage.
And, of course, Cuban cocktails are a must: nothing better than a well-prepared mojito or a daiquiri to complement your stroll along the Malecón (waterfront promenade) as the sun sets on the horizon, or enjoying music under colonial arches in Cathedral Square.
The Warmth of its People
And beyond the above, what really makes all of it extra special is the locals. Despite their many trials and tribulations, habaneros remain for the most part friendly, welcoming, and happy, and they´re always willing to share their history, their culture, and their daily life. The hospitality of Cubans is something that pervades the city.
And finally, it doesn’t really matter if it’s your first visit or your third – Havana always has something new and delightful to offer you. So book a flight with us to a city that will welcome you with open arms, and you´ll be in for the holiday of a lifetime!