Across the street from Parque Copelia in the Vedado neighborhood in Havana, I once found myself ushered through the dark front rooms of a colonial-style mansion, past shrouded furniture, and into a beautiful garden venue.
David Torrens, a Cuban singer-songwriter much beloved by young Cubans, took to a wooden stage while the audience sat on high school-era bleachers drinking cans of cola spiked with rum. His generosity as a performer spilled out onto the crowd and made it feel like the audience, artist, dark night sky and makeshift concert venue collaborated to create a wonderful evening, an experience so perfect it could only have been created in Cuba.
I’ve been lucky to have been to Cuba enough times to have grown comfortable with the rhythm of the language, the flow of traffic and the casual culture (and to make friends who take me to secret concerts in falling down mansions!). It is Cuba's contrasts that make it so alluring, no matter where you are in the country: the double-sided coins of freedom and oppression, progress and stagnation feel far less defined after visiting, and the nebulous space that remains feels revolutionary.
Travel to Cuba requires some careful planning in order to make it truly amazing. Local expert Diana Rita Cabrera has you covered with the where, the what and the how.
Local tip: Take enough euros in cash for your whole trip. Credit cards are not always accepted.
Best places to visit
Starting in Havana is a must for most visitors, but after that, heading to the beach or the countryside makes the trip that much more illuminating. Read more.
Local tip: Don't miss the rhythms of Cuba's colorful second city Santiago de Cuba.
Things to do
From watching the sunset on Havana's Malecón to uncovering history in Matanzas, there are many great experiences in Cuba. Read more.
Local tip: Explore Cuba's evolving food scene. A culinary revolution is in full swing with great flavors and regional diversity.
How to get around
With old cars and unreliable trains, getting around Cuba can be a challenge. But it's not impossible! Read more.
Local tip: The bus network is affordable. If you do rent a car, take it slow – roads can be in poor condition and signage is lacking.
WHERE TO GO WHEN
February
Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans or savor the wines from the vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina. Here are more ideas of where to go in February.
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