Why you HAVE to visit Havana, Cuba
Visiting Havana before Cuba changes has been on my list for years. The city reminds me of Venice; walking around this city is like stepping into a museum (a badly maintained museum). Most of Havana is a crumbling mess of buildings from the early to mid-1900s. The most interesting area for us was Central Havana where people actually live (as opposed to Old Havana which is for the tourists). You see little streets with broken sidewalks, old cars on cement blocks, washing hanging out of balconies,electric wiring strung out in every direction, and buildings that had once been beautiful which have crumbled and faded with time. Old cars are everywhere and if you like cars or other modes of transport (like old trains – we saw a few on display dating from the 1800s) then Havana is a great place for you. I talk about how Havana is a crumbling mess – but with its Caribbean setting there is a lot of beauty in its decrepitness.
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Old Havana (photos below) is probably what the authorities want you to see. It is completely different than Central Havana. It has forts, plazas, and cathedrals dating back from the 16th century. Although beautiful, we found that Old Havana had been restored to such a degree that most of it seemed almost artificial.
Overall, we can’t say that we loved every aspect of Havana. The touts are pushy and you can’t walk anywhere without someone wanting to give you a tour or asking for clothes or toiletries. After two days, we couldn’t walk out of the hotel without seeing the “usual suspects” making a beeline for us (usual suspects: Mr. Bicycle Taxi Man, Mr. Old Car Man, Mr. Horse Carriage Man, Mr. “Let me show you the real Cuba” Man, Mr. “Let me take you to the foreign exchange” Man). I overheard a British guy say to his wife that he just wanted to tell everyone to “fuck off” and go back to the room. We also found the city incredibly loud and polluted, diesel fumes are overwhelming.
Nevertheless, Havana has to be seen. In it’s own way, it’s one of the most beautiful cities on earth. It is an amazing city that has no comparison anywhere. It also made us appreciate what the people who live here go through every day. The great thing about travel is that it always reminds you to be thankful for what you have.
Practical Information:
Accommodation: We stayed at the Iberostar Parque Central Hotel . It is a beautiful hotel with the most fantastic views from its rooftop. A refuge from the noisy, chaotic streets of Havana. Recommended.
Beware: We were targeted for an exchange rate scam in Havana. Keep your eyes out, don’t let anyone “help” you exchange your foreign currency.
You think Havana looks amazing? Trinidad was actually our favorite place in Cuba.
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Flying in
Most international travellers entering Cuba will fly into Havana’s Jose Marti Int’l Airport (airport code: HAV). Another popular entry point is Varadero (Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport. Airport code: VRA)
Have you been to Havana?
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Related: Cuba Travel Guide: Where to Go and What to Do (including the Best Beaches)
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Hi Chris – Cuba very safe, have never ever felt in danger on any of my trips. I think locals very careful – tourism very important to them and I was told by a hotel owner that consequences for them would be harsh. I don’t think you have to worry at all, very different from most places in the Caribbean.
Have a good time,
Frank (bbqboy)
The people make Cuba great, even with the touts and scammers you’ll have a great time 🙂
Thank you Shikha. You’re right, just have to get used to it. At least they’re not physically aggressive like some other places…
Thanks Samantha – you guys pretty close being in Costa Rica. I think its one of the unique places that has to be seen. Thanks for the comment!
Thank you very much Michael!
I’ve heard the Vinales are was beautiful and the ‘authentic’ Cuba. We’ll go there if we ever go back to Cuba. Thanks for the comment Val!
Thanks for the comment Hayley! We generally really like Cubans, nice people – the few bad apples will just try to fool you or work on your sympathies. I’ve never felt anything but safe in Cuba. Hope you get there, it’s a special place!
Hi Devlin – that’s a shame. There’s TONS of casas though for the next time you’re looking for something – check out the links on my Cuba Guide page: https://bbqboy.net/cuba-guide-and-travel-tips/. The problem with Cuba though is communications; slow at the best of times, often non-functional. If I was stuck last minute I would probably chose a place centrally located and just show up. They may not have a room (but probably do!) but if they don’t they’ll call a neighboring Casa and line you up with something.
Thank you Maria – we love Cuba, but it is above all because of the people.
Thanks Brad. We think it’s a really special place. Love Cuba!
I think they especially target Parque Central because of 1) it’s location right in the middle of the city and 2) it’s a pricy hotel, they know people have a bit of money. But I’m sure having kids with you doesn’t hurt either!
Hi Jennifer – yeah, it probably hasn’t changed much from the 70’s! It’s an interesting place.
Cuba’s great, despite what the politicians tell you! You should also check out my post on Trinidad, that was actually our highlight in Cuba. Thanks for the comment Ellen!