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CUBA: Cars, Cigars and a Crumbling City. It’s Magic.

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Cuba is one of those places you visit that really stays with you. Whether it’s the cars which are all relics of a pre trade embargo era, the character of the crumbling buildings or the heart of the people, it’s truly like no other place on earth.Here is a bit of info about getting there, your visa, where to stay and what to do.

Did we mention how awesome the cars are?



Q: HOW DO I GET THERE?

A: Fly!Easiest, most frequent and cheapest flight we could find was from Cancun Mexico. However you can fly here from everywhere in the world with a layover or two. Even some US cities are beginning direct (albeit infrequent) flights direct to Havana.


Q: DO I NEED A VISA?

A: Yes. Well at least us Aussies do.It’s easy to get depending on where you’re flying in from. For Australians travelling via Cancun airport you pay at a small counter at the airport prior to checking in to your flight to Havana.


Q: WHERE SHOULD I GO?

A: See as much of it as you can. But if you’re time poor we’d recommend Havana & Viñales. That way you’ll see the countryside (Viñales) and the capital city (Havana). Havana also has some beautiful white sand beaches upon it’s fringes so you’ll get a little bit of everything.


Q: WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

A: In a Casa Particular!This is basically Cuba’s version of Airbnb. It’s a homestay, but you have your own room and space. It often includes food and as much or as little contact with the homeowner as you want. (Obviously the more Spanish you speak the more interaction possible)

You can find these on trip advisor and many forums online.

The details of the places we stayed are in the next photo. Casa Cary was in Vinales and Dalia & Teresa were in Havana (Habana). We’d really recommend both of these places, the ladies running them were really lovely and they both provided a great breakfast!

If this option doesn’t suit you we’ve heard there are some great apartments on Airbnb, however we didn’t stay in any ourselves.


MUST DO’S IN HAVANA:

  • Do Hemmingway proud and have a Daquiri at Floridita and a Mojito at La Bodeguita
  • Check out the beaches at Playas del Este.
  • Walk the Malecon
  • Visit the Museum of the revolution
  • Learn more about Cuban cigars (and if it’s your thing, perhaps dabble in a few)
  • Walk the streets
  • Talk to the incredibly friendly and welcoming locals
  • Admire the cars
  • Buy an avocado as big as your head!

MUST SEES IN VIÑALES:

  • Go for a trail ride
  • Explore the surrounding farms & area, we met the most amazing couple who taught us how to roll our own cigars, they’re pictured below
  • Breathe in some fresh country air

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