As many people of my generation, I got to know Cuba during my childhood, when I first listened to the poetic lyrics of Buena Vista Social Club. Those simple, yet powerful songs seemed to harmoniously depict a humanity full of pride, humor and romanticism. Knowing better their beautiful island’s history, it is appropriate to say that Cubans are represented by their music — a combination between multicultural rhythms and traditions — and by countless forms of art. In fact the country, both for its controversial chops and changes and for its genuine beauty, has always been a great source of inspiration for writers, painters and photographers.
According to Patricia, an interior designer that lives between New York and her native Havana, after the re-establishment of diplomatic relations with the United States in 2014, the city became even more of a magnet for creative minds around the world, whose creativity is stimulated by the mixture of colonial architecture, art deco, art nouveau, Russian constructivism, revolutionary slogans, food carts and washing lines hanging from balconies. Large groups of people who emigrated from Cuba 10 to 20 years ago are now trying to create new business opportunities on the island, and many artists, who found international success abroad, have returned to their native land and have begun to collaborate with Cubans.
After many years of social and economic restrictions, the country is finally opening its doors to the world. Its residents, who have always shown the warmest hospitality, now literally embrace the visitors, trying to absorb as much as they can from that modern style of life they’ve dreamt about. Although political changes haven’t brought radical transformations, this is probably the best time to visit the country’s capital, soak in the creative atmosphere of its streets and mingle with locals.
Charming Havana and its Main Boroughs
Tiplr’s Top 3 Tips:
- Choose to stay in one of the many casa particulares, private accommodations or bed and breakfasts that allow you to enjoy and experience local life.
- Plan ahead! Remember that most of the city can’t rely on a stable WiFi connection, therefore a map and a detailed itinerary are absolutely essential. If you really need Internet, find a spot close to one of the bigger hotels. They usually have a stable connection.
- Explore La Habana by its different district zones, an essential step to understanding the city. Read on below for the most interesting boroughs for first time visitors.
Habana Vieja (Old Havana)
is like a living time capsule, packed with history and intrigue. Its cobblestone streets are filled more now with tourists, eager for a walking tour of this beautiful and important UNESCO world heritage site. Stroll through the very popular Plaza Vieja, up to El Capitolio and El Gran Teatro de La Habana, and walk down Paseo del Prado, which designates the border between Old and Central Havana.
How to spend your day in Old Havana:
- Have a coffee and enjoy the beautiful architecture in Plaza Vieja.
- Avoid the most popular souvenir shops and stop by Clandestina Store, where you can find very original designers’ objects.
- Try to find the José Martí Theatre, a restored gem recently opened to the public.
- Enjoy a great, traditional meal at Callejón del Chorro in the charming Plaza de la Catedral.
- Have a refreshing hand-crafted helado at Coco Glace on the crowded Calle Obispo.
- Try a craft beer at La Factoria
- Grab a bite at El del Frente (think the catch of the day with a rooftop view!).
- Explore the local market at Plaza de Armas, where you’ll have the opportunity to talk with vendors about Cuba’s life and history.
- Ask young locals for directions to Buda Bar, the ultimate secret spot in Old Havana.
- Have a daiquiri at La Bodeguita del Medio, Hemingway’s favorite bar!
El Vedado
This borough is the best bet if you really want to learn about Cuban culture. Packed with bars, restaurants, music venues and, best of all, regular Cubans, this is the newer centre of business and commerce, residence for some of the wealthier Cubans and home to the University of La Habana. Here, the best way to have fun and interact with locals is sitting at El Malecon, the sea wall that runs along the northern edge of the city. Because of its direct connection to the ocean, Cubans consider this place as a therapy and an escape and come here to gather, meditate, drink, cry, laugh and fall in love.
Dont Miss:
- El Edificio Focsa, the tallest building of the city.
- The Hotel Abana Libre (you can rest in the lounge and find a working Internet connection!).
- The marvellous Plaza de la Revolución, which used to host massive crowds during political rallies and celebrations. Go to the square when it is empty and just imagine all the marches and commemorations that took place during the years in this very spot. It will be a breathtaking experience!
- La Fabrica de Arte. This factory, abandoned for many years, is now a labyrinth of creativity that hosts art exhibitions and music concerts. Definitely the sign of a Cuba that’s quickly changing.
- Eat at Rio Mar, Starbien, or Cafe Mamaine.
- Order a drink at Madrigal Bar Cafe and Sarao Bar.
Centro Habana
is a densely populated, urban neighborhood, located between Vedado and Old Havana. Bordered by the Malecón, the district has many restaurants, bars, stores, and discos.
It might feel like they’re celebrating a festival, but this is just the neighborhood’s everyday life. It’s noisy, too. Dogs bark and people talk loudly. Men push carts filled with bread and produce, shouting and singing about their products and prices.
The small area known as Callejón de Hamel, known for its Afro-Cuban culture, is definitely worth a visit and a dance!
Make a reservation at San Cristobal, famous for feeding the likes of President Obama and Jay-Z. There can be a bit of a wait, but the impeccable service, delicious food, and complimentary rum and cigar to finish make it totally worth it!
