My Cuban Adventure: Three Days in Havana

Cuba had always been on my travel bucket list, and when I finally arrived in Havana, I couldn’t have been more excited. The vibrant culture, colorful streets, and rich history beckoned, and I was ready to dive in.

Here’s a recap of my unforgettable Cuban adventure.

Day 1: First Impressions of Havana

I arrived in Havana and checked into my Airbnb, ideally located near Plaza Vieja and Plaza de San Francisco de Asís. The area around was buzzing with energy, and I could already feel the charm of the city. After settling in, I took a leisurely stroll through Plaza Vieja, one of Havana's most beautiful squares. Lined with colorful colonial buildings and bustling cafés, it was the perfect spot to get my first taste of Cuban cuisine. I enjoyed a delicious Cuban sandwich at one of the local eateries, and I savored every bite while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square.

Next, I wandered to Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, which is just a short walk away. The square is known for its lovely architecture, including the stunning Convento de San Francisco de Asís. It felt like stepping back in time, surrounded by cobblestone streets and beautiful old buildings. The area was full of life, with local vendors, artists, and musicians filling the air with music and energy. I spent hours just walking around, taking in the sights, and snapping photos of the charming streets.

Day 2: Immersing Myself in Havana's History

On my second day, I set out to explore more of Havana's historic landmarks. First up was Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in the city. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by historical buildings like the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, which now houses the Museo de la Ciudad. I walked around the square, admiring the old-fashioned cannon that sits in the center and the nearby palm trees swaying in the breeze.

From there, I made my way to Plaza de la Catedral, home to the majestic Catedral de la Habana. The cathedral’s baroque architecture was stunning, and I spent some time inside, marveling at the intricate details and peaceful ambiance. Just outside the cathedral, the plaza was bustling with tourists and locals alike, with street vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to Cuban cigars.

Later in the day, I headed to the iconic Plaza de la Revolución, where the faces of revolutionary figures like Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos are immortalized on the monumental buildings. The sheer size of the plaza was impressive, and I felt a sense of reverence walking through such a historically significant space.

After taking in the major landmarks, I explored Centro Habana, a more local, less touristy area of the city. Here, I found the real heart of Havana—colorful buildings, bustling markets, and vibrant street life. I also made a stop at the National Capitol of Cuba (El Capitolio), a grand neoclassical building that is now home to the Cuban Academy of Sciences. Its architecture was awe-inspiring, and the statue of La República inside the building was a sight to behold.

No visit to Havana would be complete without a walk through Old Havana (La Habana Vieja). I wandered through its cobbled streets, admiring the pastel-colored buildings and iconic landmarks like the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales and El Templete. As I walked, I passed locals playing dominoes on the streets, musicians playing the guitar, and vibrant murals that added a touch of creativity to the city’s historic charm.

The day ended with a stroll along El Malecón, the famous seafront promenade. The waves crashing against the wall and the cool breeze in my hair made it the perfect place to reflect on my day. I ended the evening at Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta, a historic fort guarding the entrance to Havana’s harbor. The fort’s grand views of the ocean and the city were the perfect way to wrap up a day full of Cuban history and beauty.

Day 3: A Beach Day at Playas del Este

On my third day in Cuba, I decided to escape the city and enjoy some time at the beach. I took the bus from Havana to Playas del Este, a collection of beautiful beaches located just outside the city. The ride was pleasant, with scenic views of the coastline, and after about an hour, I arrived at my destination.

Playas del Este was the perfect getaway. The beaches were pristine, with soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters. I spent the entire day relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun. The atmosphere was laid-back, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the tranquility of the coast. I found a little spot under a palm tree to enjoy a cold drink and take in the beauty around me. It was a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

As the sun started to set, I caught the last bus back to Havana, feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated. After cleaning up at my Airbnb, I ventured out for dinner. I found a charming rooftop restaurant with views of the city, and I treated myself to a delicious seafood meal. The flavors of the fresh fish paired with a Cuban mojito were the perfect way to end my trip. After dinner, I took a final walk along El Malecón, watching the sunset over the water as the city came alive with evening activity. It was a perfect ending to my short yet unforgettable trip to Cuba.

Traveling to Cuba as an American Passport Holder: What You Need to Know

Under U.S. law, Americans are not allowed to visit Cuba for purely tourist purposes. However, there are several authorized travel categories that you can choose from, which legally allow you to travel to Cuba.

Here are the categories that are mostly used for that purpose and other things to note:

Categories:

• Support for the Cuban People: This is the most commonly used category for Americans traveling to Cuba. It includes activities that promote civil society and engagement with the Cuban people, such as staying in private accommodations (Airbnbs) and supporting local businesses.

• Humanitarian Projects: For those traveling to Cuba to participate in humanitarian efforts, including medical missions or disaster relief.

• Educational Activities: If you plan to take part in a cultural or educational exchange, such as attending classes or working with an organization, this could apply.

• Family Visits: If you have family in Cuba, this category allows you to visit close relatives, including cousins, aunts, uncles, and siblings.

• Journalism: If you're a journalist or working on a project related to journalism, this category is applicable.

• Public Performance, Clinics, Workshops: If you are attending or participating in a public performance, workshop, or other organized events.

• Professional Research: For those traveling for research or professional meetings related to their career.

Things to note:

1. You’ll need to complete a Cuba Travel Affidavit, which outlines your reason for travel under one of the approved categories. This form is often provided by the airline at check-in or sent to you before your flight.

2. U.S. travelers must obtain a Cuba Tourist Card (often referred to as a visa) to enter Cuba. This is a requirement for all travelers, regardless of the category under which you are traveling. Some airlines provide the tourist card as part of the flight booking process, while others require you to purchase it separately before departure.

3. U.S. credit and debit cards generally do not work in Cuba, so it’s important to bring sufficient cash in either U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies (Euros are often preferred). You can exchange U.S. dollars in Cuba, but expect to receive a fee for converting U.S. currency into Cuban pesos.

4. There are restrictions on spending money in certain businesses that are linked to the Cuban government or military. Make sure your spending aligns with the allowed activities for your travel category, and avoid engaging with restricted businesses or industries.

5. Upon your return to the United States, you will need to keep all records of your trip, including receipts and documents proving that your visit to Cuba was within the approved category. This is to ensure you comply with U.S. regulations. If you are questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), be prepared to show documentation that supports your travel purpose.

   
   

Final Thoughts!

While traveling to Cuba as an American passport holder requires careful attention to the restrictions in place, it's certainly possible to enjoy a fantastic trip. My three days in there were nothing short of magical. From the historic squares to the vibrant streets, every corner of the city offered something new to discover. The mix of old-world charm and lively Cuban spirit made for an experience that I’ll never forget. I left with a full heart and a deep love for this beautiful, spirited city. If you ever get the chance to visit Cuba, don’t hesitate—it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!