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October 6, 2022October 18, 2022

Is It Safe to Travel to Cuba?

The reality is, Cuban culture is notably different from any other nation in the western hemisphere, from its everyday social development to the sometimes painstaking process of resolving even the smallest issues, might not be what you’re used to. That’s why, to maximize the number of activities you can cram into your week’s vacation, using a seasoned guide to create an activity calendar to meet your needs is a smart move.

To start off the right way, consider contracting the services of a private tour guide company, compared to the state-run option - and there’s a reason why. Private tour guides have a better hands-on knowledge of Cuban geography, are more efficient at handling your requests, and ensure that your cash goes to local entrepreneurs.

On the island, electronic payments and transfers aren’t as widespread as one would like, and North American debit cards (for the moment) are restricted. Which is why we recommend that you purchase most of your train, bus, or national flights within Cuba ahead of time from home. Once in Cuba, the most reliable form of payment is cash.

A wise tip is not to exchange your currency all at once but rather change what you’ll need at the moment you need it. This is due to the extreme volatility of the Cuban Peso in the market, where you can increase or lose money based on the value of the Euro, U.S., and Canadian dollar - which can fluctuate dramatically.

Book your hotel stay like in any other country, but in Havana, some areas are more centric than others. In general, the “Barrios” with the highest recommendations are the Vedado and Playa sectors - which possess a variety of leisure-based businesses and are relatively safe and secure. These areas are also well connected to the other neighborhoods in the capital city - so getting around is pretty straightforward.

Another great option, for its large number of cultural and culinary activities, is the Old Havana area. However, keep in mind that although it’s a colorful and attractive municipality, it’s also less reliable in terms of security.

One essential aspect of your stay in Havana is the subject of transportation. So, if you plan on venturing outside the city to other provinces, like heading to the famous beach of Playa Varadero, the best choice would be to purchase a bus ticket from a state provider.

You can easily access these tickets in any tourism office within capital hotels. However, if you plan to stay within the city areas, paying for private transport will be convenient, as you can use transport apps in Cuba, like La Nave, which is similar to calling an Uber to take you around.

As Havana is a city with great international attractions, it’s not rare to find several tourist traps or scams to avoid. For example, refrain from purchasing hand-made goods on the busy main avenues because their prices are mostly well above the standard cost. Likewise, don’t take the word of a stranger on the streets when it comes to dining - the quality is usually low, and you’ll risk getting sick.

Likewise, try to avoid establishments where the menu price is either non-existent or difficult to read. This is a well-known restaurant tactic to charge you more for a meal compared to local prices.

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Top Four Jazz Clubs in Havana

Things to DoTop Four Jazz Clubs in Havana La Zorra

October 4, 2022October 18, 2022

Top Four Jazz Clubs in Havana

crowd watching jazz musicians perform at night club

In Cuba, music carries the beat of life. Havana, in particular, breathes music and trades in rhythm almost as much as it does in currency, which is why its live music scene is internationally renowned. In particular, Cuban jazz has earned a reputation for unique sounds, thanks to the way it organically combines traditional Latin instruments with avant-garde experiments.

Havana’s nightclub scene includes a vast array of jazz clubs. Out of them, we’ve handpicked the best options for live music and exotic cocktails.

Located in the heart of the boho Vedado neighborhood, surrounded by art galleries, restaurants, and historical landmarks, this bar always features as one of the best for jazz lovers.

Ecléctico Bar is located inside the Paseo 206 Boutique Hotel and offers the same simple yet romantic atmosphere as the hotel. Lights are warm and cozy, the furniture is authentically 1920s deco-inspired, and every Thursday night, its lineup includes consecrated local jazz artists like Arturo Sandoval (from the Grammy Award-winning Irakere combo) and violin expert William Roblejo.

You can also sample some of the best “bar snacks” in Cuba at these events. On top of the traditional chicharron (deep-fried pork rinds), they also offer many Italian-inspired fusion appetizers and a wide array of daiquiri blends.

When to find live jazz: Every Thursday, between 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM

Door fee: 500 CUP / 20 USD (includes a drink)

Where to go: Avenida Paseo 206, Plaza de la Revolución, La Habana, Cuba

La Zorra Y El Cuervo (The Foxy lady and the Raven) is one of those old mythical spots where jazz history is written. Open from Thursdays through Sundays, the club usually opens at around 10 PM and stays open until dawn, making it an ideal place to waste the night away after a long, late dinner.

As it is located on the popular 23rd Street, also known as “La Rampa,” the club is easy to find and within walking distance of many top-ranked restaurants. As you ascend from the boardwalk, look out for a red phone booth – and step inside to enter the venue.

Inside, as if transported by Dr. Who, you’ll immediately find yourself in a typical 1920s speakeasy: refurbished vintage furniture, overfull shelves, dark lights, and a mojito in everyone’s hand.

When to come: Weekends, from 10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Door fee: 250 CUP / 10 USD

Where to go: Northwest Calle 23/, Plaza de la Revolución, La Habana, Cuba

The Miramar Cafe, located inside the former Miramar Cinema Club, is now one of the main hives for Cuban jazz lovers. Where the two clubs previously mentioned stick to the traditional scene, the Miramar privileges up-and-coming stars and younger patrons.

This is evident even in the club’s layout: its stage is located in the middle of the main lounge, allowing patrons and musicians to remain close and in constant communication while jamming. During their famous jam sessions, it’s not unusual for visiting musicians to jump inside and join the night’s main guests in their improv set.

Add a postmodern, extremely casual, and cheeky vibe, and you get a unique and unrepeatable experience every weekend.

When to come: Weekends, from 10:00 PM - 3:00 AM

Door fee: 200 CUP / 8 USD

Where to go: 5ta Avenida, corner with 94, Playa, La Habana Cuba

Likely the most traditional of all Havana’s Jazz clubs, the Jazz Cafe has earned the right to appropriate the genre’s name as its own. It is located on the top floor of the Galerías Paseo Shopping Centre, in the well-known Vedado neighborhood.

From Thursdays to Sundays, this spot will feature a continuous stream of jazz music, always crowned by a weekly jam session. Along its stage, top figures of the legendary Cuban jazz scene, such as Tito Puente and Celia Cruz, have left behind some of their best live recordings.

Plus, the wide windows opposite the stage offer a beautiful view of the sea, where the reflected stars and boats’ night lights oscillate almost to the beat of the music.

If you’re hungry, the Jazz Cafe will have you covered with a large, rotating assortment of tapas: this is also one of the best places for Cuban-Spanish fusion food.

When to come: 7:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Door fee: 250 CUP / 10 USD

Where to go: Avenida 1ra, corner with Paseo, Plaza de la Revolución, La Habana, Cuba

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Dance to Your Own Beat at Havana World Music 2022

After two years of absence, the Havana World Music Festival is back in May and set to be the Caribbean's largest and most celebrated gathering of World music.

During the three-day festival, you'll discover Brazilian Jazz-Funk, Haitian Reggae, Spanish Flamenco, Latin American Hip-Hop, and of course, a myriad of Cuban artists that include Danay Suárez, and Silvio Rodriguez, a pioneer of Nueva Trova, Cuba's very own revolutionary Folk-music.

This year the festival returns to its original home, in the grounds of Club 500, located on Calzada and 12th, in the popular Vedado neighborhood. Get ready to rumbiar Cuban style alongside 10,000 festival-goers and more than 20 acts, spread across two open-air festival stages deep in the heart of Havana.

With many European and North American festivals stuck in a rut of recycled lineups, Havana World Music breathes life into a circuit numbed by predictability. So if you’re a music lover and planning a trip to Cuba, we suggest you block out your diary and get ready to break beyond the mainstream billboards and marketing, and enter into a space where one and all are free to unearth something new in one of the world's most fascinating cities.

We're not here to tell you how to have fun, but when heading to a festival on a Caribbean island, we know how things can easily play out: A day at the beach, a big dinner, pre-drinks at the hotel, and then time to hit the venue when the party is bubbling away nicely.

Of course, there's nothing wrong with that; however, on at least one of your days at the festival, we recommend skipping the hotel Daiquiris and heading down at 6pm to attend a Primera Base contest, an integral part of the festival that celebrates emerging artists from Cuba's music scene. Whether it be Celia Cruz, Benny Moré, Buena Vista Social Club, or Silvio Rodríguez - Cuba is right at the top of the list of contributors to the world of music, so don't let pre-drinks get in the way of spotting one of Cuba's next international hit machines.

And while on the subject of pre-drinks, balance is going to be key so that you can let loose in the festival without missing out on the best of Havana and beyond. Brutal hangovers are only made worse in tropical temperatures, so don't be that festival-goer who's face down in their hotel room at 2pm while friends are cracking open a cold Bucanero in one of Havana's public squares. Take it steady and sip lots of water throughout the day: festivals are a marathon, not a sprint.

Once your festival settings are calibrated, the only thing left to do is to let yourself be carried away by the congas of the Havana street band Gigantería, whose Afro-Caribbean rhythms and brightly colored garments will lead you between the two open-air festival stages. Each night, you’ll experience eight performances, as well as Afrobeat, Capoeira, and Breakdance classes, so come dressed with a suitable balance of swagger and comfort.

Foodwise, throughout the duration of the festival, you will be able to sample the very best Cuban street food such as typical bread with lechón (pork), churros, malanga, corn fritters, tamales, tostones, and other delicious snacks.

If you're looking to continue the "rumba" after the final act has left the stage, you will find a vast array of bars and nightclubs within walking distance of the festival venue: Mío y Tuyo is the spot for Reggaeton, Jazz lovers can head to La Zorra y El Cuervo for live bands, and Elegua is the ultimate destination for those who are eager to hit the dance floor and dance Salsa with Havana's locals.

If you're looking for an LGBTQ+ friendly afterparty, Malecón 663 is our top recommendation thanks to its drag shows and live music from some of the most important faces in the local LGBTQ+ community, such as Tony Lugones or Félix Román.

For a more 'wind down' vibe, stick around at the festival venue Club 500, grab a seat overlooking the Malecón and ask the bar staff for a Canchánchara. It's unlikely to be on the menu; however, bartenders will be happy to serve up a cocktail that dates back to the Cuban War of Independence.

More than 100 artists from 30 countries have performed on the Havana World Music stages, meeting an audience eager to discover new sounds: The list of previous acts includes Francisco El Hombre (Brazil), Systema Solar (Colombia), Ozomatli (United States), Sargento García (France), Instituto Mexicano del Sonido (Mexico), and Gato Preto (Senegal).

During recent years, the festival has also attracted some of the best musicians from across Cuba such as the mythical Los Van Van orchestra, the vibrant songs of Síntesis, the jazzy timba of Interactivo, or the Afro-Cuban Funk of Cimafunk, the most recent rising star of Cuban music.

For 2022, Havana World Music is set to host the likes of celebrated Brazilian singer Rodrigo Amarante, French-Cuban combo La Dame Blanche, and one of Cuba’s finest voices, Danay Suárez.

Tickets for the seventh edition of the festival can be purchased via the festival's website. That said, if you happen to be in town at the time of the event, you may still be able to grab a ticket from the venue's box office.

Check out the full Havana World Music lineup here.

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Visit the Museo de la Revolución, and Relive the Fight for Cuba

large stately building surrounded by green trees

The city of Havana has a vibrant cultural life. It has one of the most extensive networks of museums and art galleries in the Caribbean, which will help you learn more about the country’s art, traditions, and the history that created them.

If you seek to learn more about Cuban history, the Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolución) is a great place to start. Its vast collection of historical artifacts is spread over 30 exhibition rooms, all arranged chronologically. They will take you from the first precolombin revolts to the island’s independence wars. Let’s get to know it!

The first gem in the museum is the building itself. It dates back to 1913 and encapsulates the transformations Cuba has endured throughout the last century – from an aristocratic palace to a beacon of the island’s collective heritage.

Located within walking distance of other historical buildings, the Museum of the Revolution was first meant to host the city’s local council. According to popular legend, upon seeing the lavish decor (commissioned by Tiffany & Co., of Audrey Hepburn’s breakfast fame) and splendorous dome built, the First Lady decided it should act as her family’s new official residence instead.

During the tenure of subsequent rulers, the palace accumulated more symbols of the wealth that passed through the island’s playgrounds: solid gold and bronze detailing, Carrara marble panels, and a Hall of Mirrors built after its Versailles’ namesake. After the 1959 Revolution, it was repurposed into a Museum, and its splendor became a public right.

The museum provides visitors with a complete journey through Cuba’s history for Cubans, and doesn’t shy away from trying to fan the flames of their patriotic pride. The exhibit starts with a collection of pre-discovery artifacts, follows with some of the most important relics from the War of Independence, and ends with the definitive bangs of the 1959 Revolution. Here, you’ll find autographed documents and pictures from some of their most famous guerrilleros, such as the Che Guevara and warrior-poet Camilo Cienfuegos.

The biggest highlight? The chance to enter the original Granma Yacht, which brought the first 13 Cuban guerrilla fighters from Mexico. Eventually, they would hide in the Sierra Maestra mountains to start fighting against Fulgencio Batista. The yacht is located in one of the outer courtyards, where it’s visible from the outside – so even if you don’t have the time for a full Museum tour, you can take a few pictures from the street.

If you’d rather nurture your soul with art than with politics, make sure to visit the halls devoted to Cuba’s greatest painting masters. This area includes masterworks by Leopoldo Romañach and Armando Menocal, who depicted scenes from everyday 20th-century island living. Next to them, you’ll find a bust of Cuba’s National Hero, poet Jose Martí, watching over one of the palace’s main staircases.

Finally, the columns by the main entrance hide a detail that often goes unnoticed by most visitors. A series of bullet holes remain visible, although unceremoniously unmarked. These holes date back to one of the key moments in Cuban history: the assault on the Presidential Palace in 1957.

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The Cuban Cigar: Everything You’ll need to know

cuban woman in white dress with cigar sitting in front of yellow wall

At some point, who hasn't thought about trying a renowned Cuban Cigar? Legendary in its own right on an international level. The fragrance and texture of the finalized product make Cuban tobacco, not only a great smoke, but an actual work of art and craftsmanship. The tradition of tobacco cultivation on the island dates back to the indigenous people that lived there for centuries.

The history of the Cuban cigar is one of mystery and curiosity, which we'll be revealing in this article. Also, we'll show you how to buy good quality 'Habanos' in Cuba and the best way to smoke it native-style. So, accompany us on a voyage through the culture of Cuban tobacco and how it's all done.

That's right! By the time Christopher Columbus set eyes on Cuban soil, this voyager would find that the communities inhaled smoke from dried-up tobacco leaf cylinders. The Taíno people would also consume the leaves in ceremonial rituals and for religious purposes.

They believed this practice could purify the spirit, possessing magical powers that would please their deities. Furthermore, the leaves would also be used to predict the future, holding medicinal properties. As you can see, the Cuban cigar embodies its origins and spiritual value, forever embedded in Cuban culture.

It wasn't until the 19th century that necessary conditions would be favorable for the mass commercialization of tobacco. Quickly, the amount of small and large tobacco dry houses called "Chinchales" multiplied, and farmers began growing at an impressive rate. The exportation was a success; by 1842, it surpassed the 150 million cigar mark. The once small shacks would soon become factories.

During this period, circa 1845, is when the well-known businessman Jaime Partagás developed his first cigar factory on the island. He would dedicate himself to implementing innovations and techniques in the cigar production industry. His 'Cigarros' were of such quality that he became the leading distributor to various noble families in Europe.

The Real Fabrica de Tabacos Partagás still exists and is based in a colonial-era building - undergoing many renovations since its official inauguration over 100 years ago. You can even visit this very site in Havana and learn more about the details involved in producing cigars, while rolling masters prepare the next great Habano. It's located just one block from the famous Capitolio.

You'll discover how the leaves are classified, how they are prepared for rolling, and the final placement of their signature cigar band. Tabacos Partagás also houses a shop for the sale of Habanos, allowing you to try the final product out for yourself. Guided tours have an average price of US $10.

All cigars made with 100% cultivated tobacco and manufactured on the island can be called Habanos - especially those originating from Havana. The Habano is an exclusive Cuban product, sealed with a stamp of authenticity on every box of assorted Cuban brands like the Cohiba.

Did you know that Cohiba is among the world's major brands of quality cigars? Founded in 1966, the brand has been elaborated and boxed at the same facility of El Laguito ever since. Two out of three types of Tobacco leaves are used to create a Cohiba cigar - undergoing an extra step of fermentation that allows for that unique aroma that only Cohiba can produce.

You can find all types of brand-name cigar shops around Cuba! In Varadero, we recommend the Casa de Tabaco Caribe, located at the Hicacos mall on 1st Ave, between 44th and 46th street.

If you're passing by Havana, maybe you'd prefer to check out el Comodoro, La Escogida between 3rd and 48th Street. Or stop at one of the mainstream spots like Cohiba Atmosphere at the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski on San Rafael Street. Prices vary by brand, but you can expect to pay US $100 and up for the real deal.

Make sure to hold your cigar firmly between your index and middle finger. Make your cut on the line where the cap and the wrapper meet. Hold the far end of your cigar 90 degrees from the flame, and turn the cigar as you puff along. Once you've got it lit, sit back and enjoy the best tobacco in the world while having the Cuban drink of your preference for a heightened experience.

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Havana’s National Museum of Fine Arts

Sometimes, Caribbean islands such as Cuba often get unfairly boxed in as exclusively about beaches and rum cocktails. While both can be found aplenty around Cuba, the heart of Old Havana also offers quieter opportunities to admire beauty.

The National Museum of Fine Arts is one of the best examples. A short walk from the emblematic Revolution Museum, this building is magnificent on its own. In addition, its contents will help you understand the myriad cultural and ethnic influences that run deep through Cuba’s veins.

Founded in 1913, the National Museum of Fine Arts is a hallmark of Havana's heritage, exhibiting captivating art from Cuba and the international community.

Divided between the Cuban Art building and the Universal Art building, the museum itself exemplifies the different stages of Cuba’s history. The Universal Art history building dates back to the early Republic and follows the eclectic French-inspired fashion of the time.

Meanwhile, the Cuban Art building is a restored Colonial barracks, originally built in 1764. It possesses a striking “Old World” elegance, brilliantly contrasted by the contemporary works featured throughout its magnificent halls and courtyard.

The Museum is proudly dedicated to its mantra of investigating, educating, and inspiring society. It houses the largest collection of art in the Caribbean. Despite the ups and downs experienced by the country, it remains a fascinating cultural landmark.

Do you want to get a crash course in Cuban history? Then start by examining the objects it has created: the Cuban Art collection spans from the Colonial Period to the present day. The collection includes sculptures, engravings, paintings, photographs, and videos by pioneering Cuban artists such as Ana Mendieta and Wifredo Lan.

Across the courtyard in the Universal Art building, you’ll find a delightful collection of artwork. The main collection starts with Flemish and Italian Renaissance art, and closes with select 19th century Spanish and French paintings. The smaller, but priceless “Conde de Lagunillas” collection also includes a handful of pieces from Sumerian and Egyptian Antiquity.

In addition to the main exhibitions, the National Museum of Fine Arts has two rooms for temporary displays. During flagship events such as the Bienal de La Habana (Havana Biennial) expect extra exhibits from Cuban and international artists whose works focus on issues related to Latin America and the developing world.

Guided tours

If you’re looking to go deep into the history of the pieces on display, the museum offers guided tours in both English and Spanish. On the other hand, for the more casual art fan, written information is provided alongside the works displayed, so feel free to wander through the exhibitions at your own pace and absorb the sense of expression and adventure that resonates throughout the buildings.

The Museum Library

Home to fascinating texts related to Cuban and international art, the National Museum of Fine Arts’ extensive library is open to visitors at no extra cost.

Now, at this point, we know what you’re thinking: heading to a library probably wasn’t top of your list of things to do on a Caribbean island. However, we’d be lying if we said the vast shelves weren’t worth a quick browse. You really couldn’t ask for a more well-preserved narrative of the museum’s evolution.

Music at the Museum

A small yet sophisticated concert hall located in the Cuban Art building plays host to events from Friday to Sunday. This venue is renowned for supporting youth musicians and up-and-coming projects. It specializes in Jazz and Cuban Trova, but you can expect the odd stage play and even European operatic Bel Canto.

To get your hands on tickets just head to the venue an hour before showtime. If you’re lucky enough to be in town at the right moment, on special dates throughout the year, more prominent events are held in the prestigious surroundings of the museum's courtyard. Information about all of the venue's events can be found on the National Museum of Fine Arts website.

The Museum Cafe

The museum’s cafe can be found on the first floor of both buildings. It provides cozy and enjoyable spots to regroup after appreciating the eclectic exhibitions. Take a moment to sip an aromatic Cuban coffee and relax in the cafe’s elegant surroundings, while observing the city’s beehive-like activity through its large crystal windows.

The Gift Shop

Some of us can’t resist the temptation of starting a collection of our own. When heading out of the museum, make sure you drop by the gift shop. Here, you’ll find books about many of the artists on display, in addition to high-brow souvenirs and knickknacks.

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How to Travel Safe in Cuba

The best travel advice for a safe trip to paradise!

1. Hire a professional and experienced tour guide

2. Paying and changing money in Cuba

3. Read up on the area that you’ll be visiting

4. The safest transportation in Cuba

5. Avoid the Tourist Trap

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Top Four Jazz Clubs in Havana

Cuba’s capital has always enjoyed a lively jazz scene, and has produced legendary musicians. It’s time to visit Havana’s best jazz clubs!

Ecléctico Bar

La Zorra Y El Cuervo

Miramar Cafe

Jazz Café

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Visit the Museo de la Revolución, and Relive the Fight for Cuba

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The Secret Behind the Legendary Cuban Habano

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Havana’s National Museum of Fine Arts

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