In the last two years, it seemed everyone was going to Cuba. With the lifting of US sanctions and loosening of travel restrictions to Cuba, it seemed like a natural choice to head to Havana before Cuba's doors completely open.
With only a long weekend to explore Havana, with hit the streets running. Our first stop was to explore old Havana.
We learned so much about Cuba's history and US-Cuban relation. But this time, from Cuba's side. One thing was clear from the beginning, Cubans are the most resourceful and resilient people you will ever meet. We also weren't sure how we would be received as Americans, but everyone seemed very welcoming and excited that we are there to visit their country.
We stayed just on the outskirts of old Havana in the historical Hotel Seratoga. Our claim to fame, this is the same hotel Beyonce and JayZ stayed during their visit to Havana.
I have to believe that Havana has to be a photographer's paradise. We are no photographers, but everywhere you looked was incredibly visually stimulating. I was also surprised to see in other parts of Havana that Art Deco and modern buildings were also common. As are newer cars.
The best cars were always displayed and they are all for hire as taxis. There are some cars that are privately owned, but most are owned by the government.
There are many museums to visit in Havana, but we only had time to visit one. We opted for The Museum of the Revolution. We really wanted to learn more about their perspective on the Cuban revolution. In short, Americans are bullies who like to meddle in other peoples's foreign affairs (not too far from the truth).
Food was definitely a hit or miss in Havana. Because resources are limited, food was often likely leftovers. Paladares are homes turned into restaurants. These would often have the best food in the city (top left). Our favorite snack was having coco glace on the streets (top right). They were so refreshing in the summer heat!
One place not to be missed is Hotel Nacional de Cuba. So many famous people have stayed here, from royalty, politicians, infamous gangsters, Hollywood celebrities. It was really fun to walk in the halls of history.
It was so easy to get lost in the different plazas and squares. Havana brings so many mixed emotions. You see the beauty in Cuban history, architect and music. But there was also so much poverty, lost dreams and day to day hardships. I can only hope that opening the doors to Cuban tourism will bring a better future for the country and its people, something that is so deserving after generations of poverty and exploitation.
Havana did not disappoint. Traveling there is still tricky. If we have one advice to give, bring a lot of cash and if you think you have enough, double it.