They are the first thing most people think of when they imagine Cuba. The once forbidden island is like a rolling museum with pristine 1950’s American cars in every color of the rainbow. It is quite common that many travelers become classic car paparazzi, shooting picture after picture and video of these amazing spectacles. One of the best souvenirs for yourself and fellow travelers is a convertible car ride. Treat yourselves to a forty-five minute to hour recorrido (tour of the city). Remember to always arrange the fare with the driver before.
Whether paintings, mosaics, or sculptures, you find art around every corner in Cuba. Cuba is an artistic hotbed showcasing the island’s unique spin on every form of art.
- Salsa, Son, Cha Cha Cha y Más
The dynamic sounds and complex rhythms of Cuban music are world-renowned. Going to Cuba and not experiencing its music would be a sin. So don’t be a sinner. Go to at least one show. Almost all towns have a Casa de la Música (Music House), which has live music and DJs most nights. If you are in Havana, you will have many choices from the famous cabaret, Tropicana, to Buena Vista Social Club shows. If you fancy pure jazz, head to the Jazz Café or El Cuervo y La Zorra.
One of the best ways to know a culture is experiencing it via your taste buds. Cuba is no different. The most popular dish, which every Cuban family cooks for special occasions, is roasted pork. Accompanied by staples of beans and rice and perhaps calabaza (squash), the delicious, slow-roasted pork is moist, falling of the bone, and worthy of seconds. To wash down such a meal, try a Cuban rum cocktail whether a refreshing mojito or a lesser known cocktail made with honey called canchánchara. As a finale to any meal, order a strong Cuban coffee. For those that want to savor the best of the cigar world, ask for a Cohiba cigar.
The most important reason to travel to Cuba is to experience the culture’s approach to happiness. This is by far the most valuable lesson that I have taken away over the last five years. In spite of hardships in every way, shape or form, the Cuban people have persevered by adapting, working together, and not forgetting that regardless of the situation they still have the moment. In the face of adversity, Cubans typically spin it and tell a joke, realizing they have very little control over an accident, a boss’ mood, or even their DNA. However, they take control over what they can, the moment, by joining a friend for coffee, laughing at a joke amongst family, or watching the world go by from the town plaza or seawall.
If you would like to know more about Cuba, check out my website and book, Cubicle to Cuba, now in print, ebook, and audio!