As one local guide famously said about his country Cuba: "The only way to understand our country is to be irrational". The island of Cuba is full of paradoxes: the capital's history and beauty is stunning, yet at the same time you see Spanish colonial buildings and facades crumbling to the ground due to severe mismanagement and a disfunctioning government. Cuba is also a strange country in the sense that you won't find any Coca Cola or McDonalds. And wi-fi is difficult to access for foreigners, let alone for locals. But at the same time, medical care and education has some high standards and are accessible to many in the country.
Today, part three of a photo series of Cuba - featuring classical cars, colonial buildings, and the kind and warm people of Cuba.
Planning a trip to Cuba requires strong preparation
Cuba is not some kind of easy and quick getaway location. You will need a reason to visit, and try to stay with locals. I would suggest to try to get accommodation in Old Havana where you can explore most of the capital on foot. It is close to popular cafés and bars. There is a very nice vintage book market on Plaza Vieja as well, where tourists are limited in number.
Then head out to Trinidad or Santiago de Cuba. These smaller cities reveal a very different side of this island. Trinidad is a small, walkable city with beautiful colonial architecture, while Santiago has played a very important role in the country's history.
Follow the music!
Ever heard of the Buena Vista Social Club? I am sure you have. But this is not Cuba. Their performances cater to mass tourism, to those tourists on massive cruise ship. This is not Cuba's contemporary music scene. Instead, look for more local settings such as the Jazz Cafe or La Zorra y el Cuervo. Fancy dancing? Go to Casa de la Musica. And La Fabrica offers something in the techno scene if you are craving a wild weekend dance party. I am sure you will not be the only tourist around, but this is definitely a more local (and fun!) experience.