Travel in time: Cuba
Four days in Havana
In partnership with Iberostar Packard Hotel
If you’re still deciding on this year’s away destination, make it Cuba! So genuine, authentic and still untouched - truly one of the best trips I’ve ever done. Full of the warmest people, street parties and Cuba Libres in window bars.
To Stay
Cuba isn’t cheap for foreigners and believe me you don’t want to go for a cheap hotel in Havana. However if you consider a luxury escapade to Cuba, it’s much more affordable than anywhere else. I’ve stayed in Iberostar Packard Hotel. Built in 1911 and owned by Mercedes and Evaristo Ulloa Ferro brothers up until the revolution, the Packard re-opened it’s doors in 2017. Favourite hotel of Marlon Brando in the 1950’s Packard is located in the iconic Paseo de Martí, the perfect spot for exploring Old Havana.
Famous Cuban retro cars
If you think that these taxis are a tourist attraction, you have to visit Cuba and prove it wrong! Some of them are for city tours indeed, but mainly they are used by local people on a daily basis. A ride around Havana on one of those is essential. Either you choose to ask your hotel to organise one for you or just to get one yourself, it’s easy. All drivers have a price list approved by government, so you don’t need to bargain, just choose the colour.
Four days Havana essentials
1. Daiquiris in Floridita. The bar where this cocktail was invented and, you know, they still do it perfectly! Come in the evening, if you don’t want to witness crowds of tourists during the day.
2. Dinner at La Guarida. Iconic staircase and famous film set for ‘Strawberry and Chocolate’.
3. Mojitos in La Bodeguita. Crazy place that does only Mojitos and has the best street parties!
4. El del frente - my absolute favourite bar! New wave hipster secret rooftop hang out. You can find that door if only really really try!
5. Dancing in Van Van until the sunrise!
6. Coffee at Arcangel Cafe. Most atmospheric shop with silent black and white movies, lots of cosy corners and really REALLY good coffee.
