Cuba: The Island That Defies Expectations

Discover the Enchantment of Cuba

Forget everything you think you know about Cuba. This isn’t just a tropical paradise of salsa rhythms and classic cars; this is a land that hums with the pulse of a thousand untold stories. Where the air tastes like rum, the streets smell like history, and the sky is painted with an electric sunset that’s almost too perfect to be real.

A Tapestry of Experiences

Cuba is an island that challenges your perceptions, twists your ideas, and leaves you wondering why you haven’t been here sooner. From the vibrant streets of Havana to the serene beaches of Varadero, each corner of this island invites exploration and discovery.

Feel the Rhythm

Immerse yourself in the local culture, where the sounds of music reverberate through the air, and every dance tells a story of resilience and joy. The infectious beats of salsa and son will have you moving, while the warmth of the people will make you feel at home.

Natural Wonders Await

Beyond the bustling cities, Cuba boasts stunning landscapes. Explore the lush valleys of Viñales, the crystal-clear waters of Cayo Coco, and the dramatic cliffs of Baracoa. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the island's natural beauty.

A Culinary Delight

Savour the flavours of Cuban cuisine, where traditional dishes like Ropa Vieja and Moros y Cristianos come alive with rich spices and fresh ingredients. Pair your meals with the island's famous rum or a refreshing mojito, and let your taste buds dance.

History and Heritage

Walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colonial architecture whispers tales of the past. Visit museums, art galleries, and historic sites that reflect the island's complex history and vibrant culture.

Embrace the Adventure

Ready to dive into this enigmatic, intoxicating world? Good, because Cuba isn’t a place that waits for you to catch up – it moves fast, and you’ve got to keep up. Whether you’re exploring the lively markets, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or dancing the night away, every moment in Cuba is a chance to create unforgettable memories.

So pack your bags, open your heart, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you forever changed. Welcome to Cuba, where every experience is a story waiting to be told.

Where to Stay: Think You Know Old Havana? Think Again.

1. Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski (Havana)

Forget traditional luxury—the Gran Hotel Manzana isn’t just another swanky hotel. This former colonial building in the heart of Havana is where old-world charm meets 21st-century sophistication. The building itself feels like a piece of living history, while the modern touches will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a parallel universe where luxury meets Cuba’s revolutionary soul. With a rooftop pool that offers sweeping views of Havana’s iconic skyline, it’s the perfect place to sip a Mojito and think about how Cuba challenges everything you thought you knew.

Address: 310, Avenida de las Misiones, Habana Vieja, Cuba

Website: Kempinski

2. Hotel Nacional de Cuba (Havana)

History has never been this glamorous. The Hotel Nacional isn’t just a place to stay – it’s a national treasure. Once the playground of Cuban revolutionaries, it’s now an iconic time capsule, where every corner feels like a page out of the history books. If you’re looking for a place with soul – the kind that oozes old-school elegance – this is it. Don’t forget to walk through the tropical gardens, or grab a drink at the famous terrace overlooking the sea. You might just feel the ghosts of Cuban history whispering in the breeze.

Address: Calle 0/ 1ra, Vedado, Havana, Cuba

Website: Hotel Nacional

3. Casa Particulars (Throughout Cuba)

If you want to feel like a true Cuban (and not just another tourist), then book a stay at a Casa Particular. These are private homes that open their doors to travelers, offering you a chance to experience authentic Cuban life up close. Expect warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and the chance to chat with locals who will quickly become your new friends. Each house is different, each family is unique, but one thing is certain – you’ll leave with more memories than you thought possible.

Tip: Book through Airbnb or check with locals for recommendations.

Where to Eat: More Than Just Rice and Beans

Cuba is a flavour explosion, a place where the food tells the story of colonialism, Caribbean spices, and the island’s fascinating melting pot of cultures. But don’t be fooled by the typical tourist trap “Cuban sandwich” or mojitos. The island’s food scene is much more daring, much more vibrant, and much more unexpected.

1. La Guarida (Havana)

Hidden behind a crumbling façade in the heart of Havana, La Guarida is the restaurant you’ll want to visit when you’re tired of “tourist food” and ready for authentic Cuban dining that pushes boundaries. Set in a palatial apartment, the menu mixes the flavors of the island with a sophisticated twist. Don’t miss the lobster with coconut rice and the Cuban-style pork belly. The setting? Think the glamour of Havana in its heyday, with chandeliers and a dash of revolutionary history.

Address: 418, Concordia Street, Centro Habana, Cuba

Website: La Guarida

2. El Cocinero (Havana)

Where the bold meets the bohemian. El Cocinero is located inside a former oil factory, a place where art, culture, and food meet in an unexpected collision. This place is all about modern Cuban cuisine, with an inventive menu that pairs global flavors with local ingredients. Get cozy in the hip surroundings, order a tuna tartare with Cuban guacamole, and marvel at the industrial-chic decor. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop bar for a cocktail that makes you feel like you’re floating above Havana.

Address: 11, Calle 26, Havana, Cuba

Website: El Cocinero

What to Do: The Unexpected Adventures Await

This is Cuba. You can’t come here expecting the same kind of sightseeing tours you get in most places. No, Cuba is a place that will surprise you at every turn, as you venture deep into the heart of the island.

1. Explore Viñales Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this lush, remote region is home to giant tobacco fields, cliffs, and villages frozen in time. Whether you’re hiking to one of the caves, learning how Cuban cigars are made, or just soaking in the natural beauty, Viñales is the perfect place to go if you want to explore the untouched Cuban countryside.

2. Dance to Live Music in Trinidad

If there’s one place that’s synonymous with Cuban music, it’s Trinidad. The cobbled streets are alive with salsa rhythms, rum beats, and the occasional spontaneous dance performance. Grab a drink, let the rhythm take you over, and let Cuba’s music sweep you off your feet.

3. Visit Cueva de los Peces (Cienfuegos)

Want to do something unexpected? Dive into Cuba’s hidden underworld. The Cueva de los Peces is a cavernous, freshwater cenote surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a unique swim. This hidden gem is a diver’s paradise and is still relatively unknown to most tourists. If you’re craving an adventure off the beaten path, this is it.

When to Go: Time to Face the Heat

Cuba’s warm tropical climate makes it an all-year destination, but winter months (December to February) are particularly popular, as the island enjoys pleasant temperatures and sunshine without the oppressive humidity. However, the best time to visit might just be during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-November, when the weather is still balmy, the crowds are thinner, and the prices aren’t through the roof. Avoid the height of summer (July-August) unless you’re prepared for scorching heat and intense humidity.

Cuba: Get Ready to Break the Mold

Cuba is far from ordinary. From the flicker of neon on the streets of Havana to the endless vistas in Viñales, every moment here asks you to forget your expectations and be open to something new. Whether you’re marvelling at colonial architecture, eating sizzling street food, or dancing the night away to live Cuban jazz, one thing is certain: Cuba will never be what you think it is.