havana, cuba

I had no idea what to expect in Cuba. We ended up getting a round trip flight in and out of Colombia (via Panama) to the largest island in the caribbean. The moment we landed, it felt like we were back in time. My dad grew up in a body shop in Guatemala therefore cars have always been a huge part of our family. The old American Cars that line the Cuban streets were so fun to watch. You can also ride them very cheaply throughout the city of Havana (collectivos), but you have to be patient and know what routes they go on. They offer trips in convertibles to the tourist attractions as well for some 35 CUC. 

We stayed in the Vedado neighborhood at an Old Colonial mansion converted Airbnb. The breakfast in the morning was phenomenal (especially the pancakes!). It's 5 CUC per meal and completely worth it. We were able to book an experience through Airbnb for a three day local tour of the city and country side. Two professors from the University took us in with open arms and showed us their city.

The first day we walked from Vedado to Centro Habana to Habana Vieja. Each neighborhood is so unique in it's own way. The second day we went out to the country side to visit their friends ranch home, swam in the river and ate more fish and plantains than our stomachs could take. The third day was spent cooking, and dancing, and cooking, and more dancing. We started out as friends and ended up as family. It's an experience I'll never forget. 

Here's my Havana Airbnb Wishlist! 

eats:

+ el cocinero (absolute must for dinner)

+ Atelier

+ dona eutemia 

views:

+ malecon at night

+ fabrica de arte (next to el cocinero, shops, art galleries, + dancing in one building)

+ habana vieja

+ clandestina shop (in old town Havana)