Havana Holiday: 12 Reasons why you need to visit Cuba's capital

Havana Holiday: 12 Reasons why you need to visit Cuba’s capital

Shelina Assomull

28 Feb 2018

1/12
Live Music
It is impossible to walk through the streets of Cuba without coming across invigorating music that will make you want to shake your bones. Musicians pave the streets throughout the neighbourhood of Old Havana, and many of the bars and restaurants in the city host live acts into the evening. Home to the renowned Buena Vista Social Club, for a small island, Cuban music is infectious and unique to the island.
2/12
Salsa
Speaking of Salsa, why not take a class while you're there? There are many salsa studios to choose from and even classes hosted in restaurants and hotels. Salsa is everywhere in this city. Enquire in your hotel to find out the best way to get yours, but definitely try one out. Locals love to salsa the night away, and you should be joining them!
3/12
The 1950’s car cliché
A trip to Cuba would not be complete without a ride in the iconic 1950's classic convertible. Due to an age old ban on foreign imported vehicles, cruising around Cuba sends you straight into a time warp. You can rent one or just hop in a taxi particular - a classic car taxi that lets you pool with locals - to meet some people.
4/12
Cigars
Now, we are not encouraging smoking by any means, but as a cultural experience, a trip to Cuba is in need of a cigar experience. The country is renowned for its cigar skills and producing cigars like Romeo & Juliet. If trying one is not your thing, but you're curious about Cuban cigar culture, check out a cigar factory tour in Patragrás to learn about everything that goes into their tobacco production - it's actually very cool!
5/12
Old Havana (Havana Vieja)
The city-centre of Havana is teeming with UNESCO world heritage sites and quaint shops and restaurants to enjoy. Visit the Catedral de San Cristobal, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco, and El Capitolio.
6/12
Fabrica de Arte
For the true hipster Havana explorer, Fabrica de Arte is a space for young artists to display their work, and much more. The spot is basically an art gallery and disco in an old olive oil factory. Yup, you read that right. There's bars, artwork, live music, films on projectors, food trucks made from cargo containers serving local treats and a nightclub full of people salsa-ing. Reserve some time to get through all that.

Photos: Fabrica de Arte
7/12
Sunset at Malecón
This 8 mile stretch along Havana's coast comes alive post-work hours. You will find many locals hanging out and watching the sun go down over the sea over here. The stretch is dotted with colourful colonial architecture that make for excellent gram snaps too.
8/12
Mojitos!
Guess where this classic cocktail originated? Cuba! That's right. You've heard of Havana Club rum haven't you? The cubans are famous for their rum - and tons of it. Except mojitos a plenty at crazy cheap prices. We highly recommend the one in hotel Gran Nacional - Havana's most famous hotel, with even more famous mojitos.
9/12
Paladares
Paladares are cute little restaurants set up in large homes or family spaces. These restaurants offer great food, from local delights to delicious Mediterranean tapas and Italian food. There are many dotted around Old Havana centre so stroll around until you spot one that takes your fancy.
10/12
Revolution Square
If you're a history junkie, or just fascinated by the Cuban Revolution and communism in Cuba, Revolution Square is a must-stop for you. This is where political rallies took place for decades, and home to an iconic tribute to Che Guevara.
11/12
Museum of Revolution
Again for the communism curious visitors, the museum is a must-visit. The English and Spanish storytelling invites all visitors to understand just what this country has been through, and how unique it is. Albeit with a little propaganda to take with a pinch of salt, Museo de la Revolucion will give you a better understanding of society in Cuba.
12/12
The Floridita
Floridita is extremely well-known for being frequented by Ernest Hemingway. During his spell of living in Cuba, Hemingway used to be a regular at this spot. The Floridita has truly Hemingway's love for the city and their bar and now hangs countless tributes to him on the walls. Live music, adorable bar tenders and daiquiries are truly inspirational here.

Inspired by the city, Hemingway wrote one of his most well received novels here, For Whom the Bell Tolls. Pick up this classic to enjoy while in the Cuba if you're really taking this seriously.

You’ll definitely be leaving your heart in Havana oh na na.

Cuba is a mystery and marvel for many of us. The old colourful architecture that dot the streets of this city tell many stories about its past. The plethora of classic cars that roam the roads reveal infamous tales about its communist ban on imports. Its inescapable live music and dancing locals along the streets make the city full of life, culture, history (and photo opportunities!)

The city is mysterious because there is still so little about it known to us outside of it. That is also what makes it such an interesting destination to visit. With Wi-Fi scarce and many restaurants, bars and tours unavailable online, it sends you back to a time of true travelling – exploring a place by yourself.

Its reservedness from interacting with other countries has eased up in recent years, making it much easier to travel there. You can fly from Singapore, often connecting in just one city along the way. Which, considering a time there was zero access to this charming island, is pretty impressive.

Although it’s down to your exploring, we’ve gathered some of our favourite things to do in Havana for you to get a head-start. P.S. There is a time sensitivity about visiting this timeless treasure before too many tourists do – so get on it!

Shelina Assomull

Photos: Getty Images

Sun, Sips & Sounds: 8 Music festivals in Asia worth traveling for in 2018

Ultimate Travel Guide: Why Sri Lanka is the perfect year-round holiday destination

Singapore in 48 Hours: Ultimate travel guide on where to bring visiting guests

Are you at risk of ovarian cancer? Check with your...